Seasonal Influence in Traffic-Related Air Pollutants Concentrations in Urban Parks from Porto Alegre, Brazil

Abstract

Traffic-related air pollution is an alarming source of pollutants exposure and consequently to the development of several adverse health effects. Otherwise, green spaces are reported to improve health status. Although, in an urban scenario most of these areas are located near air pollutants sources, as vehicle fleet. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine, during one year, the levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) in the main parks from Porto Alegre—Brazil. This study focused on three urban parks: Germania, Moinhos de Vento and Marinha do Brasil Park. Nitrogen dioxide and ozone measurements were accessed by passive monitoring in four campaigns including all seasons and performed at distances of 0 m, 15 m, 30 m, 45 m, 60 m and 75 m from the main road at each park. NO2 and O3 concentration among the parks was not different (p > 0.05), as well as the mean concentration of NO2 and O3 of all parks in the six sites did not differ (p > 0.05). However, season 1 and 3 showed increased NO2 and O3 concentration. Temperature were decreased in season 1 and 3 (p p > 0.05). Traffic flow was higher in Moinhos de Vento Park and Marinha do Brasil Park compared to Germania Park (p 2 and O3 concentration in urban parks from Porto Alegre.