Researchers have found that low emission zones effectively mitigate air pollution and its associated health impacts.
A research group from the Belgian mutual health insurer Mutualités Libres aimed to identify the most effective strategies for reducing air pollution and its health consequences.
Christian Horemans, a member of the research team, highlighted that, “Over the decade of our study, there was a dramatic rise in the long-term use of medications for diabetes, heart issues, and respiratory disorders, nearly doubling in prevalence. Air pollution is a significant factor in this trend, affecting public health and healthcare expenses.”
By analyzing the air pollution exposure among 420,000 members of Mutualités Libres, Horemans and his team assessed the effectiveness of low emission zones in Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, concluding that these zones proved successful. The study discovered that air pollution levels, including particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, decreased more quickly within the zones than in other Belgian cities. Notably, the positive effects of reduced air pollution extended at least 3 miles (5 km) beyond the designated zones.
Additionally, the increase in the use of antidiabetic medications was less pronounced in the Brussels zone than in other urban areas, as these medications are designed to help maintain blood sugar levels within a healthy range.
According to Horemans, “The European Environment Agency estimates that the most significant health impacts linked to nitrogen dioxide relate to the rise of diabetes mellitus. Future studies may determine if the diabetes trends we are observing are indicative of potential impacts on other health conditions.”
“It’s crucial for the public to recognize the long-term advantages of low emission zones. The benefits they provide far surpass any inconveniences tied to their implementation, particularly when it leads to cleaner air for future generations.”
In the UK, researchers from the University of Bath have also been analyzing London’s low and ultra-low emission zones, mirroring the Belgian study’s approach. Their findings demonstrated significant improvements in air quality in London post-implementation of these zones, particularly a notable drop in nitrogen dioxide levels in central London following the establishment of the ultra-low emission zone.
The researchers utilized data from the Quarterly Labour Force and Annual Population Surveys conducted by the Office for National Statistics.
Prof. Eleonora Fichera stated, “Our investigation into the introduction of London’s low emission zone in 2008 and the ultra-low emission zone in 2019 indicates that clean air initiatives yield considerable health and productivity advantages.”
“We observed marked improvements in respiratory health and mental wellbeing, as well as an 18.5% decrease in the probability of taking sick leave. These findings suggest that the zones not only enhance air quality but also foster overall wellbeing and increase workforce participation.”
