Land use impacts on particulate matter levels in Seoul, South Korea: Comparing high and low seasons

Abstract

Seoul, a city in South Korea, experiences high particulate matter (PM) levels well above the recommended standards suggested by the World Health Organization. As concerns about public health and everyday lives are being raised, this study investigates the effects of land use on PM levels in Seoul. Specifically, it attempts to identify which land use types increase or decrease PM10 and PM2.5 levels and compare the effects between high and low seasons using two sets of land use classifications: one coarser and the other finer. A series of partial least regression models identifies that industrial land use increases the PM levels in all cases. It is also reported that residential and commercial land uses associated with lower density increase these levels. Other uses, such as green spaces and road, show mixed or unclear effects. The findings of this study may inform planners and policymakers about how they can refine future land use planning and development practice in cities that face similar challenges.