Impact of Meteorological Factors and Air Pollution on Urban Salicaceae Pollen Levels

Abstract

The objective of the research was to examine how meteorological conditions and air pollution affect the levels of Salicaceae pollen in the Ankara province. Salicaceae, a plant family encompassing willows and poplars, generates pollen that may contribute to respiratory allergies. The study employed a Burkard volumetric 7-day spore trap for airborne pollen monitoring throughout the pollen season, spanning from March to June in the year 2023. The relations between pollen concentrations, various meteorological parameters and air pollutants were revealed by correlation and regression analysis. While, the wind direction was found to be positively correlated with Populus pollen concentration, there was also a positive relationship between relative humidity and Salix pollen loads. Additionally, air pollutants, including PM10, PM2.5 and nitrogen oxides, were found be positive impact on the abundance of Populus pollen. Understanding these relationships is crucial for assessing the potential health risks associated with airborne pollen and for developing strategies to mitigate the impact of urban environmental factors on pollen concentration.

Keywords

• Salicaceae
• pollen
• wind direction
• nitrogen oxides

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