如何化解浪漫秋景的嗅觉“冲击”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the dual nature of ginkgo trees in Beijing during autumn, highlighting their aesthetic appeal contrasted with the unpleasant odor from fallen ginkgo fruits, which has become a topic of public concern and management challenge [1][7]. Phenomenon - The streets of Beijing are adorned with the golden leaves of ginkgo trees, attracting many visitors, but the ground is often littered with crushed ginkgo fruits, creating a foul smell [5][6]. - Residents express frustration over the sticky residue left by the fallen fruits, which complicates vehicle maintenance and street cleanliness [6][8]. Causes - The unpleasant odor from ginkgo fruits is attributed to the outer fleshy layer of the seeds, which contains short-chain fatty acids that release strong smells when the seeds are crushed [7]. - The ginkgo's evolutionary strategy to attract scavengers for seed dispersal has lost its ecological significance in urban settings, leading to odor issues [7]. Importance of Ginkgo in Beijing - Ginkgo trees have become integral to Beijing's urban landscape since the late 20th century due to their resilience to harsh conditions and their role in improving air quality [8][9]. - The aesthetic value of ginkgo trees, especially during autumn, aligns with the city's seasonal identity, making them a preferred choice for urban greening [9]. Management Challenges - Current methods to control the odor from ginkgo fruits are limited, as the natural process of seed production cannot be entirely halted [10][11]. - The difficulty in identifying the gender of ginkgo trees at a young age complicates efforts to manage the number of fruit-bearing trees in urban areas [11]. Cleaning Efforts - Sanitation workers face increased workloads during the ginkgo season, requiring frequent cleaning to manage the fallen fruits and maintain the visual appeal of the streets [12]. - Park management is balancing the need to preserve the scenic beauty of ginkgo trees while addressing the odor issue through phased cleaning strategies [12]. Preventive Measures - Various districts in Beijing are implementing proactive measures, such as pruning and reducing pollination, to minimize the quantity of ginkgo fruits produced [12]. - Innovative approaches, including mechanical harvesting of ginkgo fruits, are being considered as potential solutions to the odor problem in urban environments [12].