Children's stunted lungs show recovery in ultra low emission zone (bbc.com)

Article summary

A study found that children's lung growth in London improved significantly after the introduction of an Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) in 2019, which reduced emissions and pollution. The study followed over 3,400 primary school children in London and Luton and found that lung capacity in London children reached near identical levels to those in Luton by the end of the study. The improvements in lung growth are likely due to the reduction in air pollution, particularly nitrogen dioxide. This study provides evidence that local clean air zones can help reduce the harm caused by pollution during childhood.

Main themes

• air pollution
• public health
• urban planning
• transportation policy
• social inequality
• environmental justice

What commenters say

• Living near highways or busy roads can have negative health effects, especially for children and people with respiratory issues.
• The London Underground, or Tube, is a significant source of air pollution, particularly particulate matter and brake dust.
• Some commenters argue that the benefits of clean air zones, such as Ulez, outweigh the potential drawbacks, including increased costs for drivers and businesses.
• Others suggest that the negative health effects of air pollution can be mitigated by individual actions, such as wearing masks or using inhalers.
• The placement of low-cost housing near highways or polluted areas can exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities.
• Developers often build housing in less desirable areas, such as near highways, due to lower land costs and higher potential returns on investment.
• Some argue that the root causes of air pollution and related health issues are systemic and require broader changes to urban planning, transportation, and economic policies.
• Individual anecdotes and experiences with air pollution and health effects vary widely, with some people noticing significant improvements in their health after moving to areas with cleaner air.