Effects of the vehicle fleet on air quality in an urban university environment of Ecuador

Introduction: Air quality in university environments is critical for the health and well-being of students and staff. This study aims to identify the permissible pollutants emitted in the parking lots of the State Technical University of Quevedo (UTEQ) in the canton of Quevedo, province of Los Ríos, Ecuador. Methods: An abductive (inductive-deductive) approach was employed, utilizing statistical methods to analyze primary emission data. In-situ measurements of pollutants, specifically carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), were conducted monthly across three parking lots at the university. Each parking lot contained three strategically established monitoring points, where measurements were taken during peak entry and exit hours and on days of highest traffic, using the Temtop M2000C-2º sensor. Results: The findings revealed significant statistical differences in pollutant concentrations among the parking lots. CO levels were notably higher in the main parking lot during midday, while PM2.5 and PM10 exhibited greater dispersion in the rear parking lot. The maximum measured values were 456.71 ppm (CO) in the main parking lot, 22.29 µg/m³ (PM2.5) in the Produteq lot, and 32.54 µg/m³ (PM10) in the rear parking lot, all of which remain within the permissible limits established by Ecuadorian legislation. Conclusion: Although air pollution levels at UTEQ are classified as moderate, the results underscore the necessity for implementing short-term mitigation measures to enhance air quality. It is recommended that university authorities develop projects and actions aimed at reducing vehicular emissions and improving overall environmental conditions on campus.