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Air and Water Pollution

Summary

This is from the Guide to Urban Farming in NY. Because airborne heavy metals and particulates are not likely to be absorbed by plants through their leaves, urban air contamination is not considered a major concern for urban-grown food. The exception is for farm and garden sites close to freeways, as freeway driving can produce toxic tire dust. In these instances, farmers should considering using a closed growing method, such as greenhouse production, or other barriers.