Geospatial Analysis of COVID-19 Lockdown Effects on Air Quality in Jordan and Surrounding Countries

In spite of the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy, it has had a positive impact on the environment. To combat the spread of the virus, many countries, including Jordan, imposed lockdown measures that involved the suspension of economic activities such as manufacturing operations, transportation, and construction (with some exceptions for essential services). Consequently, the levels of certain atmospheric pollutants, such as NO2 and CO, decreased by an average of 54% and 7%, respectively, during the lockdown period in Jordan. By conducting a systematic review of the lockdown measures and applying spatiotemporal analysis, this study established a methodology to analyze the influence of pandemic mitigation measures on regional air quality. The findings revealed a significant improvement in air quality throughout the study area during the lockdown period.