How trees contribute to air quality

How trees contribute to air quality

When developing governance strategies aimed at sustainable urbanization, the diverse role of trees in urban landscapes is often overlooked. Simply put, trees provide essential ecosystem services by helping to improve air quality, mitigate climate change, reduce energy costs, and improve human health and social well-being. This article focuses on the role of trees in improving air quality.

Air quality: a constant challenge

Air pollution has both natural and man-made sources. Some of the cutting rooms such as wildfires, volcanic eruptions and dust storms are natural phenomena that can affect air quality. However, human-caused sources such as industry, agriculture, motor transport, and electricity and heat generation contribute a significant portion of pollution.

Health effects of poor air quality

Deterioration in air quality can lead to a variety of health problems. Pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) can cause breathing problems and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Children, older people and people with existing health problems are particularly affected.

Trees and air quality: a natural filter

Trees play an essential role in improving air quality. They act as natural filters that remove pollutants from the air. They absorb gases such as nitrogen oxides, ammonia and sulfur dioxide through their leaves and bark and release oxygen, a gas essential to life on Earth.

Photosynthesis: A natural purification process

The main process by which trees remove pollutants from the air is photosynthesis. In this process, trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and use sunlight to convert it into glucose, a form of sugar, and oxygen, which is released into the atmosphere. This helps reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere.

Nitrogen fixation

Some tree species have the ability to absorb nitrogen from the atmosphere and store it in a form usable by plants and animals - a process known as nitrogen fixation. This is particularly important in areas with nitrogen-poor soils.

Interception of particles

Trees are also very effective at intercepting particles, including fine dust. This dust can become suspended in the air and is introduced deep into the lungs when inhaled, which can cause breathing problems. Through their leaves and bark, trees trap these particles and prevent them from spreading into the air.

Reduction of the heat island effect

Trees also reduce the so-called heat island effect in urban areas, where concrete and asphalt surfaces store heat and slowly release it at night. This leads to higher temperatures in cities compared to rural areas. Trees reflect sunlight and provide shade, which lowers the ambient temperature.

Conclusion

The importance of trees in improving air quality cannot be overemphasized. They play a crucial role in our ecosystem and are essential to human life. By planting and caring for trees, we can help improve air quality and protect our environment. This natural resource is a cost-effective and efficient way to combat air pollution and helps make our cities greener and healthier.