Cadmium and lead retention efficiency in the leaves of ten local tree species in Faisalabad

Abstract

Pollution has major negative impact on human health. The discharge of gaseous volatile organic and inorganic contaminants from industries, factories, motor cars, aero planes, and ships causes a persistent decline in air quality, accomplished with outbreak of several disease and even mortality. This study estimated the concentration of Cd and Pd concentration in leaves in district Faisalabad which is the 3^rd largest city of Pakistan and industrial zone. In the industrial city of Faisalabad, excessive traffic on the highways and industrial trash are seriously polluting the environment. Study revealed clear spatial and species-specific variations in Pb and Cd accumulation, with urban sites showing the highest concentrations, followed by suburban and rural areas, due to intense anthropogenic activities. Among species, Syzygium cumini and Alstonia scholaris demonstrated the greatest potential for Pb and Cd accumulation. The observed differences strongly reflect the influence of site-specific pollution load and leaf morphological traits on particulate retention.