Sustainable Urban Green Infrastructure for Air Pollution Mitigation and Environmental Quality Enhancement

Abstract

Urban areas are increasingly facing critical challenges related to air pollution, declining environmental quality, and rapid urbanization. Sustainable urban green infrastructure (UGI)—including parks, green roofs, vertical gardens, and urban forests—has been recognized as an effective strategy to improve air quality and promote ecological resilience. This study aims to evaluate the role of UGI in mitigating air pollution and enhancing overall environmental quality in metropolitan areas. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining spatial analysis of green infrastructure distribution with air quality monitoring (PM2.5, NO₂, and CO₂ levels) and stakeholder surveys in selected urban districts. The findings indicate that areas with higher proportions of UGI demonstrated a significant reduction in particulate matter (PM2.5) by 18–25% and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels by 12–19%, compared to urban zones with minimal green infrastructure. Additionally, stakeholder perceptions revealed strong correlations between UGI presence and improved thermal comfort, reduced noise levels, and enhanced public well-being. The results highlight that integrating UGI into urban planning not only contributes to pollution reduction but also strengthens climate resilience and supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11 and 13). The study emphasizes the need for policymakers and urban planners to prioritize sustainable green infrastructure as a cost-effective and long-term solution to address air pollution and environmental degradation in rapidly urbanizing regions.