Temporal-Spatial Distribution Characteristics of PM2.5 and Noise in the Under-Viaducts Space

Abstract

As large cities grow in size and density, they come under increasing pressure for space and regeneration. Many under-viaducts spaces (UVSs) are being converted into open-air sports fields, but such spaces can cause air and noise problems for people playing sports. There is a lack of research on the pollution of the UVS. To fill this gap, this study selected a case area of an UVS in central Shanghai that has already been renovated into a sports field, and investigated the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of air and noise pollution and the factors influencing them. Based on site monitoring and data analysis, this study found that: 1) Air pollution in the UVS is significantly higher than the background levels, the higher the background levels, the greater the difference between the concentrations in the UVS and the surrounding area. 2) The noise intensity in the UVS is also higher than the background value with a more constant variation. 3) Air pollution is highly correlated with the built environment and traffic flow, while noise is more closely related to traffic flow and less so to the built environment, both of which have a negative correlation with temperature. This study provided valuable empirical evidence on the exposure to air and noise pollution in the sports space under viaduct in the micro-environment, which can help planners to adequately consider pollution reduction in the planning and management of urban renewal.