Ozone 'hinders tree growth'

Poisonous gas ozone is hindering the growth of trees in the northern and temperate mid-latitudes, it has been claimed.

According to a new study, there will be ten per cent less tree growth by 2100 due to the situation.

Ozone is directly attributed to global warming and is the third-strongest greenhouse gas, reported the Economic Times.

Dr Victoria Wittig, the study's lead author, stated: "Looking at how ozone pollution affects trees is important because of the indirect impact on carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere which will further enhance global warming."

Ms Wittig's research also discovered that certain types of trees, such as broad leaved examples, are more susceptible to ozone damage than others, namely pines and conifers.

Elsewhere, a report conducted by the environmental protection ministry found that poor air quality in Israel is posing a threat to the health of country's citizens.