Investigation of Heavy Metal Contamination in the Ornamental Plants of Green Spaces in the City of Yazd

Due to rapid industrialization and urbanization, environmental pollution has become a significant concern in developing countries; therefore, the main objective of the current study is to determine some of the heavy metal (HM) concentrations in the leaves of dusty miller (Cineraria maritima) and purstane (Mesembryanthemum cordifolium) in different general bus terminal along with the green spaces in the Yazd city. The total concentrations of cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) in the plant samples were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry after digestion with acid. All statistical analysis have been conducted, using SPSS 20.0 statistical package. The results showed that the concentration of some HM in the Ghadir passenger terminal and Quran Gate terminal at ornamental plants was higher than the other bus stand. Interaction effects of location and ornamental plants were significant for Mn, Co, Pb, Zn, and Cu metals (P˂ 0.01). According to factor analysis, four factors had the highest variances (Mn, Co, Pb, and Zn). The Pearson correlation analysis between heavy metals found in the ornamental plants showed a lively and, significant correlation between the percentages of Pb with Co and Zn with Mn (P˂ 0.01), with correlation coefficients of 0.88 and 0.62). According to the results, these plants are one of the most resistant ornamental species. Therefore, in dry and semi-arid areas such as Yazd, it is suitable for beautifying green spaces, parks, and urban boulevards and the creating healthier air.