TITLE:
Spatial Distribution of Urban Forest and Its Linkages with Urban Environment in Faisalabad City
AUTHORS:
Abdul Rauf, Ahmed Abdullah Baeroom, Hamza Khaliq, Faiza Shahzad, Ajmal Hasnain, Muhammad Aziz Abid, Muhammad Arsalan
KEYWORDS:
Spatial Distributions, Urban Forest, Planning, Air Quality, Trees
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.11 No.12,
December
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: Background/Objective: Faisalabad, a major industrial hub in Pakistan, has experienced rapid urbanization and industrial growth, leading to significant environmental challenges, particularly air pollution. The city’s urban forests are crucial in mitigating these issues by providing various ecosystem services, including air quality improvement and reducing particulate matter (PM2.5). The main objective of our study was to investigate the spatial distribution of urban forests, spatial mapping of PM 2.5, and the effects of improving urban forests on the overall air and atmosphere of Faisalabad city. Methodology: Our study uses field data, satellite imagery, and inverse distance-weighted analysis to highlight the ecological and social benefits, emphasizing the need for sustainable management. Results: We found that urban forests provide a wide range of ecosystem services, such as improving air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, reducing the urban heat island effect, and mitigating stormwater runoff, offering recreational spaces for people to engage in physical activities, relax, and connect with nature. The spatial distribution of urban forests plays a crucial role in their effectiveness in reducing PM2.5. Different tree planting distribution plans can significantly affect PM2.5 removal efficiency. The study in Faisalabad found that the spatial distribution of urban forests correlates with the reduction of PM2.5, with higher concentrations of trees leading to greater reductions in particulate matter. Urban forests fostered a sense of community and provided gathering spaces for social interactions, events, and cultural activities. Conclusion: The presence of a healthy urban forest can increase property values, attract businesses, and contribute to tourism and local economies as it is essential to manage and preserve urban forests responsibly to maintain these valuable benefits. The key findings suggest that urban forests in Faisalabad City, and urban areas in general, have a significant positive impact on reducing PM2.5 concentrations. The spatial distribution of urban forests is a critical factor that influences their effectiveness. Integrated approaches using remote sensing, machine learning, and spatial analysis can help optimize the placement and management of urban forests to enhance their air quality benefits.