- Program:
- Urban Barcode Project
- Year:
- 2022-23
- Research Topic:
- Biodiversity & trade
- Taxonomic Group Studied:
- Plants
Project:
How does air pollution affect the biodiversity of trees and plants in Lower Manhattan
- Students:
- Quntao Zheng, Khadiza Rahman
- School:
- Brooklyn Technical High School, Brooklyn
- Mentors:
- Michael Estrella
Abstract:
Within this project, the degree to which air pollution affects the species of tree will be studied alongside the reasoning behind why certain types of trees are specifically used to prevent the effects of air pollution. Air pollution is an issue, especially in NYC, due to its harmful effects on both people and the environment. A study into its effects will be useful in fully understanding the extent of the damage air pollution can pose and whether trees can be the next solution to mitigate the issue. Ten samples of leaves of different trees were collected from locations throughout Lower Manhattan. DNA barcoding will be done on the samples to see the trees' properties and identities to gather further information. Additionally, from these samples, CO2 measurements were taken to judge air quality.
