CLEAN AIR BOOST TO KIDS’ MEMORY

It could give them head start in class

CUTTING air pollution near schools could boost children’s memory – putting them the equivalent of a month ahead in school, experts suggest.

Reducing levels of nitrogen dioxide produced by traffic fumes among other sources could improve pupils’ memory by 6.1 per cent, they found.

The researchers suspect that the pollutants may affect the development of children’s brains.

Previous studies conducted in Spain showed that children at schools in highly polluted areas see slower improvements in their memory.

Based on this evidence, a Manchester University team found a 20 per cent reduction in pollution could help pupils’ memories improve up to four weeks faster in a year. However, the study did not test British children’s memories.

Halving nitrogen dioxide levels could give children the equivalent of up to seven weeks of extra learning in a year. The findings suggest dirty air can pose risks to children alongside respiratory problems. Professor Martie van Tongeren, who led the research, said: ‘Policies should be set out by ministers to tackle this urgent challenge.’

Last month, analysis commissioned by Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation found more than a quarter of schools, nurseries and colleges are in areas with ‘dangerously high’ levels of pollution particles called PM2.5, which can trigger asthma attacks.

The study was carried out to mark Clean Air Day – which is today – and was commissioned by the charity Global Action Plan and the Philips Foundation. Global Action Plan is urging the Government to reduce pollution and it has advice for schools through its Clean Air for Schools Framework.