Children's stunted lungs show recovery in ultra low emission zone
A study of 3,400 children in London suggests that the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) has contributed to improved lung growth in young children. Researchers observed that lung capacity in London children began to catch up to those in less polluted areas following the implementation of emission restrictions.
Why it matters
This provides empirical evidence linking local environmental policy to measurable public health improvements in vulnerable populations.
Image caption, Children had lung function tests every year
Scientists say they have been "stunned" by how quickly young children's lungs began to recover and grow after pollution restrictions were brought in where they lived.
Researchers found that children in London whose lung growth had been stunted by pollution showed impressive improvements after the introduction of an Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) in 2019 reduced emissions.
The study followed more than 3,400 primary school children in London and Luton and provides what scientists believe is the strongest evidence yet that local clean air zones could help reduce some of the harm caused by pollution during childhood.
But independent researchers caution that other factors must also be considered.
Air pollution can stunt the growth of young children's lungs leaving them at an increased risk of asthma, heart disease, diabetes and even premature death.
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