Identification of proper species that can be used to monitor and decrease airborne Sb pollution

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Forestry

Background:

• Heavy metal pollution, particularly antimony (Sb), poses significant risks to human and environmental health.
• Anthropogenic activities have led to a continuous increase in environmental heavy metal concentrations.
• Monitoring and reducing airborne Sb pollution are critical research priorities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify suitable tree species for monitoring and mitigating airborne antimony contamination.
• To evaluate Sb concentration variations in different tree species, tissues, and age ranges.
• To determine the primary sources of Sb pollution in Düzce, a highly polluted European city.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of antimony (Sb) concentrations in five tree species: Pseudotsuga menziesii, Cupressus arizonica, Pinus pinaster, Picea orientalis, and Cedrus atlantica.
• Evaluation of Sb concentration changes based on tree species, direction, plant tissue, and age over 40 years.
• Correlation of pollution levels with local environmental factors, such as traffic density and proximity to industrial/mining sites.

Main Results:

• Sb concentrations varied significantly with tree species, direction, tissue type, and age.
• Maximum Sb concentrations were found in the outer bark, particularly in east and north directions, correlating with high traffic density.
• Traffic pollution was identified as the primary source of Sb pollution, as mining and industrial sites were distant.

Conclusions:

• Cupressus arizonica is the most suitable species for monitoring and reducing airborne Sb pollution due to the highest Sb concentration in its wood.
• Tree species, direction, tissue, and age are confirmed factors influencing Sb accumulation.
• Traffic emissions are a major contributor to urban antimony pollution.