Selection of Some Plant Species Suitable for Green Belt Expansion in Mumbai Industrial Area - A Baseline to Alleviate Global Air Pollution

Abstract

The air quality and global environment is immensely affected due to the industrial as well as urban expansion. The present study aims to identify the natural tolerance of six plant species towards the air pollution, which are growing along the Chembur industrial area of Mumbai. The plant’s air pollution tolerance level was identified by evaluating Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) and Anticipated Performance Index (API). The estimation of APTI was done based on the measurement of physico-chemical parameters like pH, ascorbic acid, total chlorophyll content and the relative leaf water content of the fresh leaves of plant species grown along the industrial and nonindustrial areas. The higher API values obtained for the Thespesia populnea (L.) Sol. excorrea, Polyalthia longifolia and Albizia saman (Jacq.) Merr plant species growing in the industrial zone indicate a good tolerance towards polluted air and hence are suggested for green zone development in the Chembur industrial area. The present work can be extended for the selection of the most air pollution tolerant plant species for the development of green zone along the industrial belt across the world. It will facilitate healthy atmosphere for the nearby population.