Impact of Industrial Pollution on Photosynthetic Pigments, Heavy Metal Accumulation, and Organic Matter in Plants

Industrial pollution severely affects plant physiology, biochemical integrity, and structuralstability. This research investigates the effects of industrial emissions on chlorophyll content, heavy metalaccumulation, and organic composition in plants located in the MIDC area of Roha, Raigad. Acomparative analysis between plants from polluted industrial zones and non-polluted control areas wasconducted to evaluate environmental stress due to industrialization. The study focuses on three ecologicallyand economically significant plant species—Areca catechu (Areca palm), Cocos nucifera (Coconut), andManilkara zapota (Sapodilla).Chlorophyll content, a key indicator of photosynthetic capacity, was assessedusing Arnon’s spectrophotometric method. Heavy metal levels, including chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), copper(Cu), and cadmium (Cd), were determined via Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) following triacid digestion. Organic matter composition was examined to assess biochemical changes due to pollutantexposure. Results revealed a significant decline in chlorophyll levels, an increased accumulation of heavymetals, and notable variations in CHNS composition in plants from polluted environments. The correlationbetween pollution levels and plant health indicators emphasizes the role of plants as bioindicators ofenvironmental contamination. This study underscores the need for routine pollution monitoring, effectivepollution control strategies, and biodiversity conservation in industrial regions. The findings provideessential insights for environmental policymakers and contribute to sustainable ecological restorationinitiatives.