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][9]. 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 that detracts from the beauty [6][7]. - In various locations, including parks and residential areas, the fallen ginkgo fruits create a messy and odorous environment, leading to complaints from residents and visitors alike [3][6][7]. Cause - 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 and fermented [8]. - The ginkgo's odor serves an evolutionary purpose to attract scavengers for seed dispersal, but in urban settings, this natural function has become a nuisance [8]. Importance of Ginkgo in Beijing - Despite the odor issue, ginkgo trees are integral to Beijing's urban landscape, having been widely planted since the 1980s due to their resilience to harsh conditions and pollution [9][10]. - Ginkgo trees are favored for their ability to improve air quality and their lower allergenic potential compared to other tree species, making them suitable for urban environments [9][10]. Management Challenges - Current methods to control the odor from ginkgo fruits are limited, as the fruiting process is a natural part of the tree's lifecycle, and there are no effective technologies to prevent it [11]. - The difficulty in identifying the gender of ginkgo trees at a young age complicates efforts to manage the planting of male trees, which do not produce the odorous fruits [11]. Balancing Aesthetics and Odor Control - Cleaning efforts during the ginkgo season are intensified, with workers needing to frequently clear the streets to manage the mess and odor [12]. - Park management strategies involve a balance between maintaining the visual appeal of ginkgo trees and managing the unpleasant smell, with phased cleaning approaches being implemented [12]. Preventive Measures - Various districts in Beijing are taking proactive measures to reduce the number of ginkgo fruits, including pruning and washing pollen to lower fertilization rates [13]. - Innovative management techniques, such as mechanical harvesting of fruits before they mature, are being considered as potential solutions to the odor problem in the future [13].

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].