The Influence of Urban Green Spaces on Airborne Particulate Pollution: A Case Study of Phutthamonthon Park, Bangkok Suburb, Thailand

Urban green spaces play a vital role in promoting public health and enhancing the quality of urban environments, particularly through their potential to mitigate air pollution. This study investigated the association between green space and airborne particulate matter (PM) of various sizes, including PM1, PM2.5, PM10, and total dust, within Phutthamonthon Park. Located in Nakhon Pathom Province, adjacent to Bangkok, Phutthamonthon Park is one of the largest suburban green spaces in the region. The park serves as a significant recreational and cultural hub that supports diverse activities, including walking, cycling, and community gatherings, while simultaneously contributing to urban air quality management through its extensive vegetation cover and open spaces. The study also assessed the influence of meteorological factors such as temperature, relative humidity, and time of day on PM concentrations. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in January 2025 using DustTrak DRX Aerosol Monitors across four zones of the park during morning, midday, and evening periods, yielding a total of 144 samples. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in total dust levels within green spaces, with peripheral zones exhibiting 50-100% higher concentrations compared to interior areas. However, no statistically significant differences were observed for PM1, PM2.5, and PM10, which remained elevated during morning hours, likely due to unfavorable atmospheric conditions. These findings underscore the complex role of urban greenery in air quality management, revealing both benefits and limitations. The study offers practical insights for urban planners and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of strategic green space design in reducing air pollution and promoting healthier urban living conditions.