Assessment of the state of the urban environment by the lichenoindication method

The conducted studies were aimed at assessing the degree of atmospheric air pollution in the city of Kursk by the method of lichenoindication. As a result of the study, it was revealed that bioindication, in particular with the use of lichens, is an effective tool for assessing the state of the urban environment. Lichens, being sensitive indicators of changes in air quality, reflect environmental changes and the level of anthropogenic impact. During the assessment of the environmental situation in the city, data were collected demonstrating the level of air pollution, as well as the impact of various factors on the state of ecosystems. It was revealed that the assessment of the area of the projective lichen cover of tree trunks makes it possible to establish a link between their distribution and the concentration of pollutants. At the same time, the revealed dependence confirms that an increase in the content of pollutants in the atmosphere negatively affects the condition of lichens, and the compiled map of the zoning of the territory of the city of Kursk in terms of environmental quality allows you to visualize the ecological situation in the city. Thus, the results of this study emphasize the importance of using bioindication in environmental monitoring systems and can be used to identify areas with high levels of pollution, develop plans to improve atmospheric air quality and environmental protection, as well as help in planning landscaping, the need to take measures to reduce emissions of harmful substances and inform the public about the current state of the environment in the city, which is of key importance for the conservation of biodiversity and public health.