Climate change and biodiversity loss resulting in heat waves, flooding, and worsening air quality impact human and planetary health. Literature reviews have found that increasing urban green spaces with native and other beneficial vegetation are nature-based solutions (NBS) that communities can use to reduce the impacts of climate change and improve biodiversity. This project aims to examine the difference between spaces with native/not native vegetation and conventional urban spaces that tend to contain nonfunctional turf grass or are continuously mowed. This study will look at metrics such as temperature, air quality (VOCs, PM1, PM2.5, PM 10), biodiversity index above and below the ground, and soil quality in terms of water retention capacity. Our study hypothesizes that NBS with increased vegetation will be beneficial in terms of less heat, flooding, and better air quality, which will lead to improved human and planetary health outcomes, protect infrastructure, and build resilience in our communities. This pilot study and the results obtained can be used for further investigation in different disciplines concerned about climate change mitigation through increased green spaces. There is applicability in fields such as urban planning and medicine in connecting climate change, human and planetary health impacts, and mitigation strategies. This project hopes to educate community members on this issue so that they can participate in diminishing the effects of climate change as much as possible.

This proposal directly funds:
1. ILLUMINA MISEQ V3 sequencing, DNeasy Powersoil Kits
2. Soil sampler probe, Atmotube sensor, mini disc infiltrometer
3. Protective ventilated box for Atmotubes
4. Pipette tips, culture plates, PVC pipe