Impact of atmospheric pollution by the cement plant on the biochemical composition of the wild olive

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of air pollution resulting from the cement plant dust deposits on certain biochemical parameters of the Oleaster (Olea europaea subsp. europaea var. silvestris). The results show that the levels of chlorophyll a, b, carotenoids and proteins were significantly reduced compared with the control. Carbohydrates show a very small increase in the polluted station; however the polyphenol content and flavonoids have increased. The increase of phenolic compounds leads to an antioxidant activity higher compared to the non-polluted area.