Suwon to Replace Male Ginkgo Trees Causing Foul Odors

[Suwon Ilbo=Seo Dong-young Reporter] Suwon City is tackling the problem of foul odors along roadsides in autumn through an eco-friendly method of removing ginkgo fruits.

The Suwon City Parks and Greenery Project Office is implementing the 'Ginkgo Female Tree Species Replacement Project' targeting major roadways, densely populated commercial areas, and other locations with heavy foot traffic.

The ginkgo female tree species replacement project, which began last year, involves replacing female ginkgo trees that produce 'ginkgo fruits'—the main culprits of roadside odors—with other tree species. Among the city's 75,500 street trees, ginkgo trees account for 12,167. Of these, female trees that bear fruits comprise 33%, or 4,313 trees. Ginkgo trees are effective at reducing fine dust and air pollutants and enhance urban aesthetics, making them suitable for street trees, but complaints persist due to the foul odor caused by their fruits.

After a comprehensive survey of ginkgo trees last year, a year-by-year basic plan was established for species replacement. The project began in April this year, with approximately 600 female ginkgo trees replaced with male ginkgo trees and zelkova trees, among others. The city plans to invest 3.6 billion won through 2022.

Female ginkgo trees that have not yet been replaced or have preservation value undergo fruit removal operations. Using specialized equipment (ginkgo fruit vibration harvesters), ginkgo fruits are shaken off to eliminate odors.

A 'ginkgo fruit collection net' has also been installed to handle both ginkgo fruits and fallen leaves at once. The ginkgo fruit collection net is an eco-friendly method that removes fruits and leaves without damaging trees.

Currently, nine collection nets have been installed on Paldalro and Changryong Avenue. The collection nets have limitations in completely eliminating ginkgo fruit odors, so they are installed in areas with relatively low foot traffic or locations that do not obstruct passing vehicles. The city plans to check the effectiveness of the ginkgo fruit collection nets with citizens and expand their installation if proven effective.