bemoreeco

Children may be at greater risk from the microscopic particles in traffic pollution than was previously thought.

Early findings from a major study in London seen by the BBC show that the lung capacity of 8- and 9-year-olds is 5% lower than the national average.

The particles – so-called “particulates” – are produced in vehicle exhaust and are far smaller than the width of a human hair. Less than 10 microns across, they are often referred to as PM10.

The results come as researchers at Lancaster University warn that levels of particulates are often higher than shown by official monitoring devices. Analysing the particulates collected on roadside leaves, the research shows that the pollution can be most intense at the height of many children.

Click here to watch the BBC NEWS Item