Scientists model impact of green infrastructure on City Centre traffic pollution
Scientists from EarthSense Systems and our University have published the results of a study into the effect of urban trees on air pollution.
The results show a direct link between air pollution and green infrastructure, with trees and grass cover contributing to a reduction in concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
The newly published research shows that the aerodynamic dispersive effect of trees results in a 9.0 percent reduction in PM2.5 concentrations. A decrease of PM2.5, by 2.8 percent owing to deposition on trees and 0.6 percent owing to deposition on grass, was also observed.
Conducted on a larger scale than previous studies, the project utilised the latest geographic data from aerial mapping company Bluesky, including aerial photography, laser mapped LiDAR and the unique National Tree Map.
EarthSense is a new joint venture between Bluesky and the University of Leicester, established to provide commercial access to a range of leading air quality technologies and research.
“This is the first time a study of this scale and nature has been conducted in the UK,” commented Professor Roland Leigh, Technical Director of EarthSense and Director of Enterprise at our Institute for Space and Earth Observation. “The results provide valuable information on the interaction of particulate matter and vegetation in the complex urban environment. There are implications on our future modelling of pollutant concentrations, and the structure and positioning of key green infrastructure.”
Antoine Jeanjean, lead author of the paper and Modeller at EarthSense Systems, added: “The use of the most up to date and accurate geographical data, combined with proven modelling techniques on this scale, is a first, and we hope it will inform and influence further studies and real world projects.”
-
Working with industry translates the University of Leicester’s research into the business innovations that shape our world. Leicester seeks to tackle global challenges, transform lives and address real life problems by effectively working with businesses to develop successful partnerships and apply knowledge with impact.