Scientists and MPs urge Burnham to launch inquiry into unequal health impacts of pollution
Call for a government inquiry
The government is being urged to hold an inquiry into the unequal effects of air pollution. The call comes in a letter signed by 150 scientists, MPs and activists.
Research cited in the letter found minority-ethnic populations were exposed to pollution levels about 6% higher than white populations. The letter says the UK has no dedicated mechanism for addressing the resulting health inequalities.
Health risks and pollution sources
Pollution comes from sources including wood-burning stoves and industrial fossil fuel burning. Traffic emissions are described as the leading threat to clean air, with petrol and diesel vehicles releasing a range of toxic pollutants.
Clean air measures debated
Measures such as London’s ultra-low emission zone have significantly improved air quality. Children’s lungs were found to have grown bigger and stronger following the policy. Mums for Lungs said Burnham’s 2023 decision, when he was mayor of Greater Manchester, to scrap clean air zone plans raised questions about whether enough was being done to cut pollution.
Key points
- A letter signed by 150 people calls for a government inquiry into unequal air pollution impacts.
- Minority-ethnic populations faced pollution exposure about 6% higher than white populations, according to cited research.
- Traffic emissions are identified as the leading threat to clean air.
- Children face particular risks because their lungs are still developing.