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Paris showcases a car-free future during the Olympics
Paris is showcasing a dramatic reduction in car reliance, resulting in significantly improved air quality, as it prepares for the 2024 Olympics.
Mike Gagliardi reports for NBC News.
In short:
- Paris has banned cars on more than 100 streets, increased parking fees for SUVs, and created 1,300 km of bike lanes under Mayor Anne Hidalgo.
- The city’s air pollution has dropped by 40% as a result of these changes, making it a model for urban environmental reform.
- Despite facing political challenges, a majority of Parisians support Hidalgo's environmental initiatives.
Key quote:
“This is no longer the time for cars, and we need to fight against them for a low-carbon future.”
— Carlos Moreno, professor at the University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne
Why this matters:
Reducing car dependency can significantly lower pollution and improve health outcomes. Paris serves as an inspiration for cities worldwide aiming to combat climate change and promote sustainable urban living. Read more: In polluted cities, reducing air pollution could lower cancer rates as much as eliminating smoking would.
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Politicians in Belgium urged to strengthen low emission zones
The Mutualités Libres insurance group and other experts advocate for enhanced clean air measures to counteract the dangers of air pollution.
In short:
- Mutualités Libres, a Belgian insurer, studied the impact of low emission zones (LEZs) on air pollution in Antwerp, Brussels, and Ghent.
- The research revealed that residents inside the LEZs experienced quicker improvements in air quality, particularly in reducing nitrogen dioxide, soot, and particle pollution.
- Despite progress, the insurer stresses the need for continued action, calling for expanded measures to protect public health and ensure cleaner air in cities.
Key quote:
"Policymakers should support and embrace initiatives like LEZs to improve air quality in cities. This is not the time to press a 'pause button' or turn back the clock."
— Dr. Luk Bruyneel, Mutualités Libres
Why this matters:
Cleaner air has tangible health benefits, and by enhancing LEZs and other initiatives, policymakers can significantly reduce the risk of heart and lung illnesses and promote healthier, more livable urban environments. Read more: Tiny particles of air pollution appear more deadly if from human-made sources.
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Lockdowns lead to a significant drop in asthma emergencies due to cleaner air
A study from Oxford reveals a notable decrease in asthma-related hospital admissions in 2020, linking it to the reduction of air pollution amid COVID-19 lockdowns.
In short:
- Emergency admissions for asthma in Oxford fell by 41% in 2020, as air quality improved with fewer vehicles on the road.
- The study correlates peaks in asthma admissions with air pollution levels, pointing to a direct link between air quality and asthma exacerbations.
- Testimonies from individuals with asthma documented personal improvements in lung function during lockdown periods.
Key quote:
“The Covid-19 pandemic led to a unique opportunity where we could study the impacts of rapid changes in human activities on air quality.”
— Dr. Suzanne Bartington, lead researcher, University of Birmingham
Why this matters:
This finding emphasizes the direct impact of air quality on health, particularly for those with respiratory conditions like asthma. It supports the need for cleaner air policies, not only for environmental reasons but as an important public health measure.
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A scientist in Louisville is compiling data on trees and human health
An ongoing science experiment involves nearly 8,000 trees and shrubs in southern Louisville and health data from nearly 500 residents.
Could Chicago be first major Midwestern city to give gas the boot?
A proposed ordinance to lower indoor emissions in new construction in Chicago could move fossil fuels out of new construction.
School buses get a green boost with $1 billion EPA investment
A clean school bus initiative, funded by the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, aims to protect students from harmful air pollution and support the transition to green energy.
Maxine Joselow and Anna Phillips report for The Washington Post
In short:
- The Biden administration allocates nearly $1 billion for school districts to replace diesel buses with cleaner alternatives, including electric buses.
- More than 280 school districts serving more than 7 million students will benefit, with a focus on low-income, rural and tribal communities.
- The transition to electric buses faces challenges related to infrastructure and charging, but some states are committed to phasing out diesel buses.
Key quote:
"Zero-emission school buses can and one day will be the American standard, and we're hitting the accelerator on a cleaner and healthier future for all."
— Michael Regan, EPA Administrator
Visit EHN's energy section for more top news about energy, climate and health.
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Top Story
EPA unveils $1 billion for electric and low-emission school buses
The EPA funding will allow school districts to purchase electric and low-emission buses, but it could be a bumpy transition for some districts
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