Scientists stunned by children's lung recovery in ultra low emission zone
A study of over 3,400 London primary school children found that lung growth improved significantly following the implementation of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez). Researchers observed that children's lung capacity, previously stunted by pollution, reached levels comparable to those in less polluted areas within four years.
Why it matters
This provides strong evidence that local air quality interventions can yield measurable, rapid health benefits for vulnerable populations, potentially influencing future urban environmental policy.
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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