While pollution from vehicle exhausts has been known for some time to exacerbate the symptoms of asthma, a new study published in the European Respiratory Journal establishes for the first time the direct causal link between the two.
"Traffic pollution is a known trigger of asthma symptoms, but a new study suggests a much more direct link: European researchers say that traffic pollution may cause 14 percent of childhood asthma, putting it on par with second-hand smoke," writes
As the study's lead author, Dr Laura Perez, explained to the European Lung Foundation:
Air pollution has previously been seen to trigger symptoms but this is the first time we have estimated the percentage of cases that might not have occurred if Europeans had not been exposed to road traffic pollution. In light of all the existing epidemiological studies showing that road-traffic contributes to the onset of the disease in children, we must consider these results to improve policy making and urban planning.
FULL STORY: Does Traffic Pollution Cause Asthma?
Progressive Planning in Ideologically Conservative Communities
Planners must work in diverse political environments including conservative jurisdictions that are skeptical of new issues and perspectives. Here are ways to reconcile conflicting goals.
Amtrak Expanding Service in California’s Central Valley
Amtrak is planning a major expansion to the passenger rail lines connecting the Central Valley and the Bay Area.
Robotaxis Wreak Havoc on Urban Transit
In cities across the United States, robotaxis, championed by companies like Waymo and Cruise, are a marvel of modern technology and a flashpoint for debate over their place in urban transit.
How Good Transit Benefits Communities Beyond its Users
Robust, efficient transit networks can have an outsized impact on vehicle miles traveled, even by non-transit users.
Why Renewables Aren’t Going Anywhere
The worldwide transition to renewable energy sources is already underway as climate change creates more significant impacts on the global supply chain and economy.
Opinion: Supporting Electric School Buses is the Right Thing to Do — and Fiscally Conservative
Why switching school bus fleets to electric vehicles is good for students, the environment, and school districts’ finances.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Desert Recreation District
EMC Planning Group Inc.
University of Southern California
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners
Market Building Foundation Inc
Detroit Regional Partnership