Read: The burden of air pollution falls on the most vulnerable
As climate records tumble and political parties review their policies to reflect perceived voter sentiment, the evidence continues to stack up to show that the burden of climate change, and in particular that of air pollution, is borne by the most disadvantaged communities. Despite being the least responsible for dirty emissions, they are often the most exposed to their impact in their daily lives.
New research shows that if you are poor, or from an ethnic minority, you are much more likely to suffer most from the impact of air pollution. An analysis published by the Mayor of London shows that the most deprived communities in London still more commonly live in the most polluted areas, whereas the areas that have a disproportionately white population also have the lowest nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter concentrations, inequalities which are much more pronounced in Outer than Inner London.
It is well-known that air pollution can be the cause of preterm and low birth-weight babies. It can also hamper children’s lung growth, increase the chance of childhood asthma and worsen asthma symptoms. In the UK, black women are nearly four times more likely to die during pregnancy and are twice as likely to experience a stillbirth as white women. A new study has highlighted that, despite this, many expectant black mothers, and those with young children, are aware of air pollution but less aware of the risks it poses. Many felt they had few options to make lifestyle changes that would make a difference to their children’s health. The survey also demonstrated the need for increased knowledge among the health professionals who care for them.
The differences in air pollution between the richest and least well-off areas are not just confined to London. The greatest air pollution across England is found in the poorest and least white communities. What is striking is that they are also most vulnerable to its impact not just because of where they live but as a result of other factors including poor housing and existing health conditions. A new report from Asthma & Lung UK highlights worse lung health among the poorest people in the UK. It found that people with lung conditions living in poverty are twice as likely to die from their lung conditions and also found that they struggle to access the care they need. They also face increasing cost-of-living pressures in being able to heat their homes, pay their mortgages or rent and pay for prescriptions and find it difficult to manage their condition as a result.
We all have a part to play in improving air quality but until the significant issue of health inequalities is also tackled, the most disadvantaged communities will continue to pay the highest price.
