Scientists stunned by children's lung recovery in ultra low emission zone
Points and comments are a snapshot, not live.
Children's stunted lung growth improved rapidly after London's Ultra Low Emission Zone took effect.
A study following 3,400 primary school children in London and Luton, published in the Lancet Public Health, tracked lung function from 2018-2023. London children initially had smaller lung capacity than comparable Luton children, but after ULEZ began in 2019, their lung growth accelerated to near identical levels within four years. The proportion of London children with clinically impaired lung capacity fell from 14% to 9%. Researchers attribute the recovery to reduced nitrogen dioxide levels from the pollution charge on older vehicles.
Independent experts cautioned the study did not fully control for COVID-19 disruptions or behavioral changes like increased walking and cycling. Lead author Dr. Helen Wood noted air pollution in both cities remains above WHO guidelines.
What commenters are saying
Anecdotal reports strongly support the findings: multiple commenters say they use their inhaler less and no longer get black snot after visiting London. One user noted anecdotally that moving their daughter away from a busy highway resolved wheezing and nebulizer use within months.
Several commenters argue that black snot is primarily from the tube, not street pollution, citing poor ventilation and brake dust on older lines. Others caution that tire wear and brake particulate remain significant pollution sources even with electric vehicles. A recurring tip is to avoid living within a third of a mile of a highway, and to use HEPA air purifiers with activated carbon for VOCs, though some debate the effectiveness of consumer-grade filters.