Trees can contribute greatly to the reduction of particulate matter or its negative effects. However, every tree is different and absorbs different substances. Deciduous trees absorb nitrogen oxide and ozone most efficiently, and conifers, in turn, are more suitable for absorbing the fine particles.

Conifers
Pine trees are ideally suited for capturing particulate matter. The small dust particles remain attached to the needles and are then disposed of by precipitation. In addition, conifers have the advantage that they remain green even in the winter, thus contributing to the reduction of particulate matter.

Deciduous trees
Whereas conifers are capable of capturing the particulate matter itself, deciduous trees address the effects of particulate matter. The leaves effectively absorb gaseous pollutants from the air via stomata. Especially in summer ozone is created by the combination of heat, volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxide. This so-called summer smog causes demonstrable damage to health. The selected deciduous trees are suitable for reducing this type of smog in the urban environment.