Exploring How Green and Herbal Plants Can Help to Reduce Air Pollution in Industrial, Urban, and Community Settings: Opportunities, Challenges, and a Sustainable Multi-Stakeholder Framework

Abstract

Air pollution in densely populated and industrialized urban areas especially in areas such as Delhi-NCR remains a major public health and environmental challenge. While regulatory measures and emissions control are necessary, complementary green-based solutions such as growing herbaceous plants, indoor and outdoor vegetation, and agro-forestry offer promising, affordable, and sustainable ways to reduce airborne pollutants. This review examines the scientific basis for such plant-based alleviation measures, summarizes current knowledge on the ability of plants to absorb gaseous pollutants and particulate matter, and analyzes the potential and limitations of vegetation deployment in manufacturing facilities, housing, high- density urban streets and rural/agricultural areas. We further propose a collaborative model with several stakeholders for a scalable and sustainable "green air" initiative involving public agencies, industry, voluntary organizations and community engagement. We conclude that although facilities alone cannot replace emissions control, when integrated with strict regulatory enforcement and community engagement, they can make important contributions to improved air quality and public health.