Quarry dust emission effects on tree species diversity in Chongoni forest Reserve and vegetation characteristics in adjacent villages, Dedza, Malawi

Background

Quarry dust is widely reported to have adverse effects on both human health and plant community structure, particularly resulting in decreased diversity and ecosystem functions. Therefore, it is critical to examine and monitor the interactions between these dust particles and vegetation.

Goals & Methods

The objective of this study is to examine the effects of quarrying dust emission on the tree species diversity and vegetation characteristics in Chongoni Forest Reserve and adjacent villages. To do so, the authors conducted an inventory of tree species near sites adjacent to the quarry and measured the dust load estimation and chlorophyll extraction. 

 Conclusions & Takeaways

The authors found that decreased chlorophyll produced by plants and decreased plant diversity is associated with increased proximity to quarries. They suggest a "green belt", which is defined as a large plantation of pollutant-tolerant trees that help mitigate air pollution by intercepting, filtering and absorbing pollutants in a sustainable way, in order to decrease the spread of quarry dust and for the betterment of both environmental and human health.