1 AIT Asian Institute of Technology

An evaluation of the relationship between urban green space and air pollution in urban and sub-urban areas of Bangkok

AuthorNantikan Promchan
Call NumberAIT RSPR no.UE-23-03
Subject(s)Air--Pollution--Thailand--Bangkok
Air quality--Standards--Thailand
Urban ecology (Biology)--Thailand--Bangkok

NoteA research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Urban Innovation and Sustainability, School of Environment, Resources and Development
PublisherAsian Institute of Technology
Series StatementResearch studies project report ; no. UE-23-03
AbstractIn recent years, Bangkok has been identified as one of the cities highly affected by air pollution on a global scale, as increasing levels of particle matter (PM) pose significant threats to both human well-being and the environment. Urban Green Spaces (UGS), or green spaces in urban areas, have proven effective in mitigating air pollution and other environmental hazards. This research attempts to investigate the correlation between the extent of UGS and air pollution levels in various districts of Bangkok. This study aims to compare the levels of PM10 and PM2.5 between non-green areas (adjacent to roads) and green areas (city parks) and identify appropriate plant species for mitigating PM pollution in Bangkok by conducting an extensive literature review. This research aims to examine the correlation between the extent of UGS and air pollution levels in different districts of Bangkok. The study intends to compare the levels of PM10 and PM2.5 between non-green areas (adjacent to roads) and green areas (city parks). Furthermore, the research aims to identify suitable plant species for mitigating PM pollution in Bangkok by conducting an extensive literature review. The methodology involves collecting data from secondary sources, conducting analysis using one-way ANOVA and independent-sample T-tests, and Mann–Kendall test with Sen’s slope. The findings reveal that UGS areas have consistently grown, while air pollution levels exhibit seasonal variations. They were monitoring stations near roads with consistently higher PM2.5 concentrations compared to those in parks. Factors such as distance from emission sources, dispersion and dilution, vegetation and green spaces, and physical barriers contribute to decreased PM2.5 concentration in parks. The research suggests that incorporating green infrastructure in urban planning can reduce PM2.5 in Bangkok. Plants species such as Ficus annulata, Salix babylonica, Muntingia calabura, Wrightia religiosa, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Polyalthia longifolia, and Dypsis lutescens are suitable for urban greening efforts in the city’s tropical climate. Based on the research finding, recommendations propose to improve air quality through UGS initiatives and collaboration with relevant stakeholders. This study underscores the necessity for ongoing endeavors to manage air pollution, especially during periods of heightened risk. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable measures for maintaining improved air quality in Bangkok.
Year2023
Corresponding Series Added EntryAsian Institute of Technology. Research studies project report ; no. UE-23-03
TypeResearch Study Project Report (RSPR)
SchoolSchool of Environment, Resources, and Development
DepartmentDepartment of Development and Sustainability (DDS)
Academic Program/FoSUrban Innovation and Sustainability (UIS)
Chairperson(s)Thi, Phuoc Lai Nguyen;
Examination Committee(s)Ekbordin Winijkul;Pramanik, Malay;
Scholarship Donor(s)Royal Thai Government Fellowship;
DegreeResearch Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2023


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