Particulate Pollution Capture by Seventeen Woody Species Growing in Parks or along Roads in Two European Cities

This research aims to extend the existing knowledge on air quality improvement by arboreal–shrub heritage. The PM accumulation (PM10–100, PM2.5–10, and PM0.2–2.5 (µg·cm−2)) was measured with consolidated gravimetric techniques during spring, summer, fall for 2160 leaf samples belonging basal, median, apical part of crown 17 species located in streets parks 2 European cities (Rimini Krakow). On same samples, deposition (PM10 PM2.5 (µg·cm−2·day−1)) evaluated according a model based wash-off rain effect. Quercus ilex accumulated more PMx than other Rimini, while Krakow, highest accumulators were Pinus nigra PM10–100, Tilia cordata Populus PM0.2–2.5. Only Krakow capture capacity some affected street or park growing condition. basal leaves showed greater PM10–100 median ones. In total tended increase throughout year, opposite occurred. However, as increased, decreased. reduced rainfall enhanced concentration, wind speed effect opposite, depending city. These findings are useful directing decision makers design greener, healthier, sustainable cities.