Ultra-Low Emission Zone Linked to Rapid Recovery in Children's Lung Growth
A Lancet Public Health study of more than 3,400 primary school children in London and Luton found that lung growth accelerated after London’s 2019 Ultra Low Emission Zone, with London children catching up to peers in less polluted Luton and a drop in clinically impaired lung function from 14% to 9%. The findings suggest clean-air zones can rapidly reverse pollution-related stunting in childhood, though researchers caution that other factors and ongoing air-quality improvements must be considered.