An Investigation on the Role of Plants in Combating Environmental Pollution in Urban Areas (Case Study: Tehran)

Vegetation cover encompasses assemblages of various plant species and their spatial distribution in a specific area. Preservation of green spaces and plant species are now a days more important than development in urban areas. In the present investigation, vegetation in urban area (Region 16 of municipality of Tehran) and their importance in environmental promotion is brought out. For this purpose, the vegetation cover in all 28 recreation parks of region 16 is identified. The vegetation of area of study falls within 4 broad groups namely trees, shrubs, plants and flowers. Subsequently advantages and disadvantages of these groups is studied. The advantages include high number of urban parks, relatively higher plant density, considerable plant diversity and finally presence of shading plants. It should be noted that vegetation cover receive high quality management even during winter time. Presence of plants incompatible with Tehran s climate, absence of plants capable of lowering air and soil pollution level (phytoremediation) and improper distances amongst plants are among the main disadvantages. The primary results of present investigation shows that vegetation cover should be selected in accordance with ecological, hygienic, landscape and economic conditions of the area of study. Grass as vegetation cover consumes more water and also produces more greenhouse gases. Considering the water scarcity of Tehran, it is better to substitute grass covers with Hedera helix and Frankenia (seaheath). Some other compatible plants such as Ailanthus altissima or Gentianales can be recommended to combat air pollution in Tehran.