Trace gas measurements and plots

A range of trace gases are measured continuously at Baring Head, New Zealand. Observations at this station were started in the early 1970s and continue to the present. 

Carbon dioxide

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is measured continuously at Baring Head, providing the longest running record of this type in the Southern hemisphere. Observations at this station were started in the early 1970s and continue to the present.

Methane

Methane (CH4) is the second most important greenhouse gas after CO2 that is produced by human activities. While most of the anthropogenic emissions of CO2 are from industrial processes, most anthropogenic CH4 emissions are from agriculture.

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) plays a key role in atmospheric chemistry because it is the largest sink for hydroxyl radical (OH). OH is often called the 'detergent' of the atmosphere because it destroys many harmful pollutants.

Ozone

There is a marked seasonal cycle in surface ozone (O3), with a maximum in winter and minimum in summer. There can also be significant variability from day to day caused by synoptic scale meteorological variations.

Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide (N2O), commonly known as laughing gas, is an important greenhouse gas. Naturally produced by bacteria in soils and oceans, agriculture is the main source of human-produced nitrous oxide.

Research subject: Climate changeGreenhouse Gases