'University Library System, University of Pittsburgh'
Abstract
Particulate matter (PM) air pollution varies in concentration and composition across both space and time, and has been shown to cause or exacerbate adverse effects on human and ecological health. The concept of biomonitoring - using tree leaves as a proxy for PM pollution - has been explored using a variety of study designs, tree species, sampling strategies, and analytical methods across multiple geographies. Development and refinement of methods for utilizing tree leaves as biomonitors is relevant to public health in that it may improve spatially-resolved PM exposure assessments for epidemiological studies, ultimately contributing to PM exposure reduction and improved urban planning. A pilot study investigating this method is discussed, with results suggesting a somewhat limited utility of magnetic methods that is relatively understated in the literature
