PhD researcher Maria del Carmen Redondo Bermúdez explains: “results from observing the green barrier plants under the microscope show that particles of pollution are deposited on the leaves' surface, with each plant operating differently.”
“The images from the Scanning Electron Microscope show the surface of an ivy leaf (the grey area) and particulate matter being deposited on it (the white dots). The imaged labelled 100um has been magnified 600 times and the image labelled 50um has been magnified 1,200 times.”
“Some plants capture more of the small particles, whist other capture both big and small particles. This shows that it is important to have multiple plants species in the green barrier to foster capturing all sizes of particulate matter.”
The BREATHE barrier, which was designed in conjunction with Urban Wilderness, includes a mix of herbaceous plants, shrubs, trees and climbers, arranged in three distinct layers. Fifty ivy fence panels act as the first line of defence and aim to reduce the amount of NO2 gases reaching the playground.
The middle layer consists of conifers and bamboo, whilst the third and innermost layer uses shrubs and herbaceous plants, which are able to catch particulates, benefit pollinators and enhance well-being.
Maria adds: “whilst I’m currently analysing data relating to potential air quality improvements in the playground, the school community also sees value in the green barrier beyond these improvements.”
“They say that transforming the playground from grey to green has increased its quality and attractiveness. It feels like a more restorative environment, good for wellbeing and it provides multiple learning opportunities as well as habitat for wildlife”.
For more information about this project, as well as other examples of our work - from student projects, staff research and professional collaborations - helping to address the climate crisis, check out the Hopeful Greener Futures page below.