Title: ENVI-met simulation-based study on the impact of urban small-scale public green spaces on airborne particulate matter concentration

Authors: Jie Zhao; Lei Feng

Addresses: Department of Architecture, Henan Technical College of Construction, Zhengzhou, 45000, China ' Department of Architecture, Henan Technical College of Construction, Zhengzhou, 45000, China

Abstract: Airborne particulate matter (APM) concentration significantly affects urban environmental quality and residents' health. To explore how small-scale public green spaces regulate APM, a site in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, was studied using field measurements and ENVI-met simulations. Results show a diurnal APM pattern characterised by a morning peak, early afternoon trough, and evening rebound. Microclimate factors - wind speed, temperature, and humidity - have greater influence than vegetation structure, with APM negatively correlated with wind speed and temperature, and positively with humidity. Spatial configuration, vegetation structure, and the ratio of green to hard surfaces notably affect APM reduction efficiency. Wind-permeable vegetation layouts enhance APM dispersion. Optimisation strategies include reducing hard pavement, adopting open and connected spatial layouts, and increasing mixed plant communities around the area, offering practical guidance for improving air quality and microclimate in high-density urban environments.

Keywords: small-scale public green space; airborne particulate matter; APM; concentration; variation pattern; ENVI-met simulation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEE.2026.151951

International Journal of Environmental Engineering, 2026 Vol.14 No.1, pp.72 - 98

Received: 28 Apr 2025
Accepted: 25 Jun 2025
Published online: 27 Feb 2026 *

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