The health benefits of low emission zones for children

Imagine a 13% reduction in childhood asthma prescriptions just by being born in a low emission zone. A recent study by the Berlin-based Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC) found just that: children born in urban low emission zones required significantly less asthma medication by their fifth birthday. This remarkable finding highlights the profound impact that cleaner air can have on our children's health and underscores the urgency of establishing and maintaining low emission zones in urban areas.

New research details how asthma is reduced

The study, conducted by the Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC) in collaboration with the Universities of Frankfurt am Main and Maastricht, quantifies for the first time the long-term health benefits of low emission zones. By comparing children born before and after the introduction of these zones, the researchers found a clear cause-and-effect relationship: living in a low emission zone from conception to first birthday leads to better respiratory health in early childhood.

The research used anonymized patient data from Germany's largest health insurance company and focused on half a million newborns between 2006 and 2017. The results show a significant reduction in asthma prescriptions, which translates into significant cost savings for the healthcare system.

Asthma cases highlight need for better air quality

Asthma is a growing concern worldwide, with its prevalence increasing dramatically from the 1970s to the 1990s. In Germany alone, approximately 10-15% of children and 5-7% of adults suffer from asthma. This chronic disease affects approximately 8 million people in the country, with children being the most vulnerable. The economic burden and impact on quality of life underscore the urgent need for effective measures to improve air quality.

The introduction of Low Emission Zones (LEZs) is a critical step in addressing this problem. These zones have already led to a 5% reduction in particulate matter pollution in Germany. With cleaner air, fewer children are developing asthma and those who do require less medication. This is a significant achievement and shows that environmental policies can have direct and significant health benefits.

Support our mission to improve children's health

Our mission is clear: to create a healthier environment for our children. Recent evidence underscores the importance of supporting and expanding low emission zones. Achieving this goal, however, requires community effort and collective action. We need your support to advocate for better air quality policies and to raise awareness about the health benefits of cleaner air.

By joining our community, you will become part of a movement dedicated to improving children's health and creating a sustainable future. Together we can make a difference.

Sources:

1. Ulrich von Lampe, “Researchers find 13% reduction in asthma in children born in an urban low emission zone,” Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change, American Economic Journal: Economic Policy (2024).
2. “Häufigkeit » Asthma bronchiale » Krankheiten » Startseite,” lungenaerzte-im-netz.de.
3. Image by Adam Vradenburg. Link