Here's a surprise: Plants pollute. Plants cause pollution. It is said vegetation accounts for two-thirds of a pollution called volatile organic compounds (VACs). And, unfortunately -- at least according to a study four years ago by the EPA -- plant pollutants can interact with other pollutants to change the chemical make up of the air in a negative way.
So, some (including me) have been suggesting more trees as a way to fight pollution? We better put that idea on hold, at least until we find out the pluses and minuses. Do plants turn enough carbon monoxide into oxygen to outweigh the pollutants created?
Also, we know traditional pollutants can harm trees. That said, I don't look around Salt Lake City and see many trees appearing to be dying from the pollution.
http://www.epa.gov/sciencematters/june2010/scinews_trees.htm
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