Pollution attenuation by roadside greenbelt in and around urban areas

Greenbelts are effective tools for mitigation of traffic induced air and noise pollution. In this study, the potential role of greenbelts along the roadside for the reduction of air pollution and noise levels has been assessed by using seasonally monitored data in a megacity of Bangladesh. Correlation analysis was performed between the vegetation status, measured by canopy density and shelterbelt porosity, and the total suspended particles (TSP) removal percentage. Further, the reduction of noise level was also analyzed. The results showed that the greenbelts greatly contributed to reduce TSP pollution and it was as much as 65%. Noise level reduction was also achieved up to 17 dB when compared to the open area. Moreover, TSP removal percentage was correlated to the crown density. Area having higher crown density demonstrated less air pollution and lower level of noise compared to the area having lower crown density. Greenbelt showed better performance in summer time than winter. (C) 2012 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.