A review of the effect of traffic-related air pollution around schools on student health and its mitigation

Introduction: The impact of traffic-related pollution around schools on student health has attracted increased attention in recent years. As students are exposed to pollutants around schools during their daily commute, the effect of pollutant exposure on students is substantial. Methods: A literature review of the effects of traffic-related pollution around schools on student health and mitigation measures was conducted. A simple meta-analysis on the effects of PM2.5 and PM10 on respiratory health was also performed. Results: Traffic-related pollutants have a great impact on student health. For example, NO2, elemental carbon, and particulate matter have a significant impact on the cognition and developmental nervous systems and respiratory system of students. When concentrations are high, the prevalence of respiratory infection, asthma, tracheitis, and other diseases in children increases. Traffic-related pollutants around schools affect the cardiovascular system and are associated with allergic symptoms. To reduce the effect of traffic-related pollution on student health, some mitigation measures are suggested. Suitable transport routes and walking routes to and from school should be planned based on the pollution levels around the school. Trees and hedges could be set up on the roads around the school to prevent the diffusion of PM. The influence of street form and building layout on pollutant diffusion should be considered in urban planning. In heavily polluted areas, pollutant filters can be used to clean the air. The government should actively reduce the number of vehicles near schools, strengthen infrastructure construction, and reduce congestion. At the social level, idle running time should be reduced. Conclusions: We have a relatively strong understanding of the traffic pollution around schools and its impact on student health. The mitigation measures for reducing the effect of traffic pollution on student health were summarized. Future government policies and social initiatives that could be taken were proposed.

Automated summary

Traffic-related pollution around schools has a significant impact on student health, affecting the respiratory, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. To mitigate the effects of pollution, measures such as planning suitable transport routes, planting trees, and utilizing pollutant filters can be effective. Future government policies and social initiatives should focus on reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality near schools.