Grass can play a significant role in reducing air pollution in urban areas, according to researchers in the United Kingdom. The study found that longer grass can recover up to 30% of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a harmful air pollutant emitted by vehicles that can cause respiratory problems. The study also found benefits to using grass in urban environments such as reducing the risk of flooding, and absorbing rainwater. Longer grass and grasses that are hardy and can tolerate stress from the environment, such as drought and pollution, will be most effective at reducing air pollution and other benefits in urban areas.
New Study Finds Grass Can Reduce Air Pollution in Urban Areas
A new study conducted by researchers in the United Kingdom has found that grass can play a significant role in reducing air pollution in urban areas.
The Study
The study, which was published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, found that grass can effectively remove nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from the air. NO2 is a harmful pollutant that is emitted by vehicles and can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory issues.
The researchers conducted their study by installing grass plots on the roof of a building in downtown Sheffield, UK. They measured the amount of NO2 in the air both before and after the grass was planted, and found that the grass was able to reduce NO2 levels by up to 30%. The study also found that longer grass was more effective at reducing pollution than shorter grass.
The Benefits of Grass in Urban Areas
The use of grass in urban areas has a range of benefits beyond just reducing air pollution. Grass helps to absorb rainwater, which can reduce the risk of flooding, and it also helps to reduce the urban heat island effect, where cities are significantly warmer than the surrounding countryside.
Grass also provides habitats for a range of wildlife, and can help to create more attractive and pleasant urban environments. This can have a range of benefits for human health and wellbeing, including reduced stress levels and improved mental health.
The Implications of the Study
The study has important implications for policymakers and urban planners. It suggests that by incorporating grass into urban environments, it may be possible to reduce the harmful effects of air pollution, while also providing a range of other benefits.
However, the study also highlights the importance of choosing the right type of grass for urban environments. Grasses that are hardy and can tolerate environmental stresses, such as drought and pollution, will be most effective at reducing air pollution and providing other benefits in urban areas.
FAQs
Can grass really reduce air pollution?
Yes, according to the study conducted by researchers in the UK, grass can effectively reduce nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from the air by up to 30%.
What are the other benefits of using grass in urban areas?
Grass can help to absorb rainwater, which can reduce the risk of flooding, and it also helps to reduce the urban heat island effect. It can also provide habitats for wildlife and create more attractive and pleasant urban environments, which can have benefits for human health and wellbeing.
What type of grass is most effective at reducing air pollution in urban areas?
Grasses that are hardy and can tolerate environmental stresses, such as drought and pollution, will be most effective at reducing air pollution and providing other benefits in urban areas.
