Estimation of sulphur dioxide emission from consumption of premium motor spirit and automotive gas oil in Nigeria

This paper estimated the annual levels of sulphur dioxide (SO2) from consumption of premium motor spirit (PMS) and automotive gas oil (AGO) across the States and Regions of Nigeria. This was with a view to estimating the per capita and land distributions of emissions. Annual fuel consumption, average fuel sulphur contents and emission factors were combined to estimate the annual levels of SO2. Per capita and land distributions of emissions were then established using population and land area, respectively. Results showed that Lagos and Ogun States had the maximum SO2 emissions from consumption of PMS and AGO, respectively, in 2012. Between 2001 and 2014; most of the SO2 emissions from consumption of PMS and AGO came from the South-western and South-southern regions of the country, respectively. Based on projected future fuel consumption, annual SO2 emissions from utilization of PMS and AGO are projected to further increase over their 2014 estimates. Interim measure suggested for mitigation of SO2 emission is the importation of refined products with highly reduced sulphur contents. Medium to long-term measures include building of more refineries locally to make use of Nigeria’s crude oil which is generally low in sulphur content and a massive improvement in the country’s energy generation so as to lower the demand pressure on refined petroleum products.