Trento is one of five European cities featured in a new international study aimed at analyzing airborne biodiversity and its relationship with urban green spaces and human health.
The AirBID project, which involves the Fondazione Edmund Mach, is funded through the European Biodiversa+ partnership and includes institutions from five European countries. The project's kick-off meeting took place recently in Vienna, bringing together experts in scientific research, urban planning, and community engagement.
The Institutions and cities involved
The study is carried out by the Environmental Botany Research Unit of FEM, in collaboration with the University of Gothenburg in Sweden (coordinator), the University of Aarhus in Denmark, the University of Évora in Portugal, the Austrian Institute of Technology in Tulln, Austria
FEM's Role and Air Sampling in Trento
Within the project, Fondazione Edmund Mach will coordinate the sampling and analysis of biological particles in the atmosphere (bioaerosols) across all participating cities. These analyses will be conducted in various types and densities of urban green spaces, using an interdisciplinary approach and citizen science initiatives. The first phase of data collection will take place in Trento, in collaboration with the Municipality of Trento.
Studying the Impact of Urban Green Spaces on Air Biodiversity
The air we breathe contains a vast diversity of biological particles—the so-called aerobiome—which influence human health and well-being. However, the role of urban green spaces in shaping this invisible biodiversity remains underexplored.
The project aims to bridge this knowledge gap by analyzing airborne pollen, fungal spores, and bacteria.
To achieve this, air samples will be collected using aerobiological samplers placed in different types of urban green spaces. The samples will then be analyzed using both traditional optical microscopy techniques and advanced DNA sequencing methods.
During the kick-off meeting, project partners defined the research activities and outlined the project management strategy. The main objectives include:
- Analyzing air biodiversity through DNA sequencing and microscopic analysis
- Developing maps and decision-making tools for urban planners and policymakers to improve green space management
- Engaging citizens through citizen science initiatives, raising awareness about airborne biodiversity
- Providing guidelines for designing healthier and more sustainable cities
The FEM Aerobiology Monitoring Center
Since 1989, FEM has operated an Aerobiology Monitoring Center, specializing in the sampling and analysis of pollen and fungal spores dispersed in the atmosphere.
