Removal of atmospheric pollutants by the urban forest in the Aburrá Valley

Urban forests provide different ecosystem services, such as the removal of atmospheric pollutants, carbon sequestration, water and microclimate regulation, and habitat for wildlife. This improves environmental quality and the well-being of the population. In this study, the structure of the urban forest of the Aburrá Valley was analyzed and its contribution to the removal of atmospheric pollutants was estimated and valued using the i-Tree Eco software. For this purpose, 398 forest sampling plots were established and secondary information on climatic and pollution conditions was used. A 23% tree cover was found in the study area and a removal of 228 tons of pollutants per year (approximate value of 2.1 million USD). Finally, strategies are recommended for the optimization of this service and the creation of mechanisms to compensate for the loss of tree cover.