A new study published in *Nature* reveals that certain trees, while often lauded for their environmental benefits, are contributing to worsening air quality in cities. The trees release compounds that contribute to ozone emissions, and rising temperatures are expected to exacerbate the problem.
According to *Nature*, published online on August 20, 2026, the issue stems from the biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) released by trees. These compounds react with pollutants in the air, leading to the formation of ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant. While trees absorb carbon dioxide, the study highlights a previously underappreciated negative impact on air quality.
The research indicates that rising temperatures could worsen this effect. As temperatures increase, trees release more BVOCs, potentially leading to higher ozone levels in urban areas. This is a concern for city planners and environmental scientists seeking to improve air quality and public health. The study’s doi is 10.1038/d41586-026-02586-2.
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