Dry Deposition of Fine Particulate Matter by City-Owned Street Trees in a City Defined by Urban Sprawl

Urban expansion intensifies population exposures to fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Trees mitigate pollution by dry deposition, in which particles settle on plants. However, city-scale models frequently overlook differences in tree species and structure. This study assesses PM2.5 removal by individual city-owned street trees in Mississauga, Canada, throughout the 2019 leaf-growing season (May to September). 27.8 tons of PM2.5 were removed from 200,560 city-owned trees (245 species). Coniferous species (14.37% of trees) removed 25.62 tons (92% of total), much higher than deciduous species (85.63%, 2.18 tons). Picea pungens (18.33 tons, 66%), Pinus nigra (3.29 tons, 12%), and Picea abies (1.50 tons, 5%) are three key species. Conifers' removal efficiency originates from the faster deposition velocities, larger tree size, and dense foliage, all of which enhance particle deposition. The findings indicate interspecies differences in PM2.5 mitigation, emphasizing the importance of smart urban forestry. This study emphasizes species-specific approaches for improving urban air quality through targeted tree planting. Prioritizing coniferous species such as spruce and pine can improve pollution mitigation, providing actionable strategies for Mississauga and other cities worldwide to develop green infrastructure planning for air pollution.