Role of Native Trees in Mitigation of Fine Particulate Matter (PM_2.5) to Improve Air Quality

Four native trees were selected to find out their potential for reducing the concentrations of PM_2.5 in the ambient air. The trees selected were Pinus wallichiana, Mangifera indica, Avicennia marina, and Syzygium cumini. Real-time aerosol monitors (TSI Inc.) were run in parallel at a distance of 50 m in the upwind direction and under the canopy. Levels of PM_2.5 in both the upwind position and the canopy were much higher, with mean values ranging between 167.90±2.231 to 108.26±3.472 in the upwind position and 40.32±8.97 and 152.50±32.264 in the canopy. The levels of fine particulate matter were observed to be lower in the canopy than in the upwind direction. Overall, Avicennia marina was found to be most effective in PM reduction, while Syzygium cumini was found to be least effective.