Biomonitoring airborne pollution: a case study of “Urginea maritima” species in Bentael natural reserve–Lebanon

Abstract

Biomonitoring airborne pollution has been a widespread practice. Its advantages make it an alternative to costly technological techniques. In this context, a rare species “Urginea maritima” was tested to measure the changes surrounding Bentael natural reserve in Lebanon, triggered by the inauguration of a new road on its south side, and revealed alarming results through two years study (2015–2016). Three environmental indicators were evaluated: Air Pollution Tolerance Index, Total Antioxidant Capacity and leaf Relative Water Content. These factors showed the escalated evolution of the air pollution during the studied months. In addition, six parameters, separated between pollution markers and scavengers, were studied: hydrogen peroxide, pheophytin, proline, ascorbic acid, carotenoids and total phenolic compounds showed a gradual and sharp increase. The passive biomonitoring with plants confirmed to be a reliable method to evaluate airborne pollution effects which will expose new extent to establish a routine monitoring program in Lebanon.