Wasteland 5 – Fifth in a series of pictures of vegetation apparently growing naturally on wasteland and contributing to the biodiversity of the habitat on the side of Pipers Walk on the Waterfront in Swansea, South Wales, 19 June 2021.
Although this particular site is due for redevelopment in what is now an amenity area, and some distance from the main road or large-scale industrial activity, it is interesting to note that urban wastelands can be helpful in reducing air pollution. Particulate matter in the air represents an increasing threat to human health in urban areas. Urban wastelands: on the frontline between air pollution sources and residential areas by Przbysz et al describes how wasteland vegetation can accumulate significant amounts of particulate matter (PM) and trace elements (TE) from polluted air on their foliage. This is dependent on the location of the wasteland (how near it is to the pollution source) and not its species composition. The vegetation is more effective at accumulating PM and TE if it has a layered structure with trees, shrubs and low plants. ‘The results of this study prove that in areas where organised greenery is not present, it is important to maintain spontaneous wasteland vegetation close to emission sources because it could serve as an invaluable tool in passive air purification from PM, mainly through PM accumulation and inhibition of the spread of PM to residential areas’.
Jessica's Nature Blog 
Excellent photography. Thought provoking post.
“…passive air purification…” curious phrase. Reminds me of an old friend’s endless pursuit of “the passive income stream” he can obtain simply by convincing credulous blog readers they need life enhancing supplementation sourced from Ali Baba’s Cave.
Is “waste land” likely in the Smart Cities of The Great Reset? The Smart Cities of the twenty minute travel horizon?
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Hi, Genericwaz. Thanks for the comments. I am sure that there would be no room for wasteland in the proposed smart city of the future but, then again, maybe there would be no pollution either, nor natural wildlife?
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No natural wildlife proposed for the cities and only a few Smart genetically modified humans.
” …we that are young
Shall never see so much nor live so long.”
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I hope for the best in a future world that cares for the natural environment of which we are an integral part.
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I appreciate the education you’re giving us, Jessica, along with the fine photographs.
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Thank you, Linda. I am learning a lot and finding it very interesting.
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