Green space improves air quality.
Increased green space is important when tackling air pollution. Plants and trees are known for their ability to clean the air and remove harmful toxins and pollutants through their leaves, roots, and bark. Trees and plants also absorb carbon dioxide through the process of photosynthesis, providing us with fresh oxygen to breathe. Green space is important!
What happens in Camden?
Cities are some of the most polluted places due to heavy traffic and building emissions. Exposure to green space is also often lower for people living in cities rather than the countryside. There is also a phenomenon known as the Urban Heat Island Effect that takes place in cities. This occurs when cities replace green space with a high density of concrete pavements, buildings, and roads, all of which absorb and retain heat, contributing to a warmer microclimate. For this reason, planting more trees and plants in cities is essential in combatting air pollution.
What can I do?
There are a couple of simple ways that we can improve our air quality using green space. The first is by planting green borders between roads and living spaces such as playgrounds, gardens, and outdoor seating areas. These barriers can be in the form of a hedge, a line of trees, a green wall, or lots of bushes, and will all absorb pollutants in the immediate vicinity. Green borders are also a great way to reduce the sound and sight of a busy road but unlike a fence, can also help improve the surrounding air quality. Win-win!
Which are the best at air-purifying?
Trees:
Outdoor plants:
Good for living walls:
