How moss revealed undetected air pollution

The video discusses the discovery of high levels of toxic metals in certain Portland neighborhoods, attributed to local glass manufacturing. Moss, used as an air quality indicator, revealed these pollution hotspots. The findings prompted regulatory reviews and highlighted the need for better air quality monitoring. The study underscores the importance of moss in environmental research and the need for updated regulations to protect public health.

What surprising discovery was made in certain Portland neighborhoods?

• New species of moss

• Increased plant diversity

• Decreased air pollution

• High levels of toxic metals

What type of plant did Sarah Joanne and her team study to assess air quality?

• Ferns

• Moss

• Grass

• Trees

What metals were found in high levels near glass manufacturing companies?

• Lead and mercury

• Iron and copper

• Cadmium and arsenic

• Zinc and nickel

What did the Department of Environmental Quality do in response to the moss study findings?

• Ignored the results

• Increased taxes on metals

• Deployed air monitors

• Closed the glass companies

What was confirmed by the air monitors deployed around the glass companies?

• The air was only slightly polluted

• The air quality was improving

• The air contained high levels of toxic metals

• The air was free of pollutants

What is one of the lessons learned from the moss study?

• Moss cannot survive in polluted areas

• Better air quality monitoring is needed

• Air pollution is not a concern

• Glass manufacturing is not harmful

What is Oregon currently doing in response to the findings of the moss study?

• Ignoring the results

• Revising regulations for glass manufacturers

• Banning all industrial activities

• Increasing the use of toxic metals