In the midst of the spring season, marked by the increase in medical consultations due to allergies, the La Plata City Council is discussing a draft ordinance that proposes the prohibition of planting plane trees (Platanus x acerifolia) throughout the city.
The initiative, driven by councilwoman PRO-Juntos por el Cambio (PRO-JxC), Lucía Barbier, proposes a structural change in urban species policy and a progressive transition towards healthier and more sustainable alternatives.
Neighborhood Complaints and Health Evidence
The project arises in response to repeated complaints from residents and health professionals about the effects of plane tree pollen on children, the elderly, and people with chronic respiratory diseases.
“For decades, the plane tree was part of the urban landscape of La Plata, but today technical and health evidence shows that its massive presence generates concrete problems that we must address responsibly,” Barbier stated in declarations to the portal 0221.
Impact of Pollen on Public Health
Plane tree pollen contains highly allergenic proteins —Pla a 1, Pla a 2, and Pla a 3— that can trigger:
- Persistent rhinitis and nasal congestion.
- Conjunctivitis, tearing, and eye redness.
- Asthmatic crises and a sensation of dry or irritated throat.
This pollen is extremely lightweight and can travel up to 30 kilometers, affecting even people who do not live near tree-lined avenues. Additionally, it presents cross-reactivity with other common pollens, intensifying symptoms in those with a history of allergies.
Damage to Urban Infrastructure from Planting Plane Trees
Beyond health issues, councilwoman Barbier highlighted the damage caused by plane tree roots to urban infrastructure:
- Sidewalk breakage.
- Damage to pipes.
- Affecting urban furniture.
These impacts imply high maintenance costs and risks to the safety of residents.
Progressive Replacement Plan
The initiative empowers the Executive Department to design a replacement plan prioritizing specimens located in:
- Hospitals.
- Nursing homes.
- Schools and kindergartens.
The plan will include a public hearing to incorporate criteria from tree specialists, public health experts, and neighborhood representatives.
Native and Resilient Alternatives
The project promotes the planting of native species such as:
- Jacaranda.
- Lapacho.
- Ceibo.
- Timbó.
- Criollo willow.
These species present better adaptation to the local climate, reduce risks associated with pollen, decrease structural damage, and strengthen the resilience of urban trees against extreme weather events.
Transparency and Citizen Control
To ensure the plan’s follow-up, the ordinance proposes creating a Digital Public Tree Registry, where the location, status, and replacement schedule of plane trees will be recorded.
This tool will allow residents and authorities to verify compliance with objectives and encourage citizen participation.
The debate on the prohibition of plane trees in La Plata reflects the need to rethink urban trees from a health, environmental, and social perspective. The transition to native species not only seeks to reduce allergies and structural damage but also to strengthen the biodiversity and ecological balance of the city.
