Researchers report that London’s ultra-low emission zone (ULEZ) is associated with improved lung growth and function in children. The findings come from comparing measurements taken from schoolchildren before and after ULEZ was introduced.
According to the study results cited by multiple outlets, children’s lung capacity that had been stunted by air pollution exposure shows signs of restoration after more polluting vehicles are restricted from entering parts of London. The Guardian and other reports describe improvements in both lung size and lung performance. Coverage also notes that the ULEZ was implemented in 2019 and that the work draws on substantial child participation, with one report citing more than 3,400 children.
While outlets emphasize different wording—such as “lung growth,” “lung size,” and “lung function”—they all present the same overall conclusion: after ULEZ begins operations, measured respiratory outcomes in participating children improve relative to their earlier baseline.
