The variability of the levels of atmospheric particulate matter PM10 and its composition is assessed in the rural and urban zones of Mexicali during fall and winter 2008-2009, using a low level volume Minivol sampler, with quartz and Teflon filters. During fall the Mexican norm was exceeded (120 μg/m3 in 24 hr) in only two occasions, while in winter it was exceeded twelve times. The predominant component in fall was geological material with 62.5% for the rural zone and 48.5% for the urban one.

Foliar surface undergoes several structural and functional changes when particulate-laden air strikes it. An attempt was made to evaluate the quality of air in terms of respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM), suspended particulate matter (SPM), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) along with biochemical parameters of twelve selected roadside plant species at industrial, traffic, residential and rural areas of Rourkela city in India. Increase concentration of heavy metals (Fe, Cu and Zn) was recorded at site B (industrial area).