Seven years after the introduction of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez), a major study shows that children in the capital are experiencing faster and healthier lung growth compared to those in similar urban areas without such measures.
- Children’s lung growth improved following Ulez introduction
- Nitrogen dioxide pollution levels fell faster in London
- More kids switched from car rides to walking or cycling
What happened
In April 2019, London launched its Ultra Low Emission Zone to reduce traffic pollution and improve public health. Researchers from Queen Mary University of London studied over 3,400 primary school children aged six to nine in London and Luton between 2018 and 2022. They measured lung function annually using two key indicators: Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV₁) and Forced Vital Capacity (FVC).
Before Ulez began, children in London showed poorer lung capacity and faced higher exposure to nitrogen dioxide compared to children in Luton, an area without a similar clean air zone. After the introduction of Ulez, pollution levels dropped more quickly in London and children’s lung growth accelerated, effectively closing the initial health gap over the years studied.
Why it feels good
The study highlights that Ulez is doing more than lowering pollution numbers—it’s making a measurable difference in children’s health, an especially vulnerable group. Healthier lung growth in childhood can have lasting positive effects, lowering risks of respiratory and cardiovascular problems later in life.
Experts involved in the research expressed surprise at how quickly lung function improved. Additionally, a shift in how children travel to school supports this trend: more London children began walking, cycling, or using public transport instead of being driven, which benefits both health and the environment.
What to enjoy or watch next
Ulez initially covered central London and has since expanded to inner and greater London areas, promising even broader benefits. Observers will be interested to see continuing research validating long-term health outcomes as the zone grows.
Families and communities can take inspiration from these findings by advocating for similar clean air initiatives and encouraging active travel for children. Watching how other cities implement and adapt these strategies could offer more hopeful lessons on improving urban health.