Document Type : Original Research Articles
Authors
1
Department of Physical Geography, Faculty of Geographical Sciences and Planning, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
2
Department of Physical Geography, Faculty of Geographical Sciences and Planning, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
10.30466/grfs.2026.57050.1216
Abstract
In recent decades, rapid urbanization, industrial concentration, and increasing traffic volumes have turned air pollution into one of the most critical environmental challenges in metropolitan areas. This phenomenon is closely linked to the formation of urban heat islands. The present study focuses on the city of Isfahan—one of Iran’s major industrial centers—to analyze spatial patterns of air pollution and its relationship with urban heat islands. Satellite data from Sentinel-5P and Landsat 8 and 9, along with ground-based air quality monitoring stations, were employed using spatial analysis techniques in the Geographic Information System (GIS). Four major pollutants—nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and particulate matter—were examined. Results revealed a heterogeneous distribution of pollutants, with the highest concentrations observed in central, northern, and northwestern districts (notably districts 2, 8, 12, 1, 3, 7, 9, and 11), whereas southern and southeastern areas (districts 4, 5, 6, and 15) exhibited lower pollution levels. Classical Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) models indicated significant positive correlations between pollutant concentrations and urban variables such as population density, built-up intensity, and road density. Conversely, Land Surface Temperature (LST) showed a direct relationship with pollutant levels, while natural indicators, including vegetation cover (NDVI), surface water (NDWI), and elevation, were negatively correlated. Temporal analysis showed that in 2020, coinciding with COVID-19 restrictions, NO₂ and CO concentrations notably declined. Overall, findings highlight the decisive role of anthropogenic and industrial activities in exacerbating air pollution and urban heat island intensity in Isfahan.
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