Air we breathe in UK depends on race and income, studies show

We are all affected by air pollution but some of us suffer a greater burden than others.

An analysis published by the mayor of London has laid out the systematic air pollution differences between communities. Overall, people of black or mixed ethnicities are more likely to live in the most polluted places.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action

Air Pollution’s Impact on Health

There is ample evidence that air pollution exposure can lead to preterm and low birth-weight babies. Air pollution then hampers children’s lung growth, increases the chance of childhood asthma, and worsens asthma symptoms.

Lack of Awareness among Black Mothers

Despite this, a new survey by the NGO Global Black Maternal Health has shown a lack of awareness of air pollution risks among expectant black mothers and those with young children. It also found a need for increased knowledge among the health professionals who care for them.

Addressing Inequalities in Air Pollution Exposure

The survey findings were announced at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. It found many black mothers were aware of air pollution but less aware of risks that it posed. Some mothers would like to make lifestyle changes to reduce their air pollution exposure but felt they had few options.

Agnes Agyepong, the founder of Global Black Maternal Health and Black Child Clean Air, said: “In the UK, black women are nearly four times more likely to die during pregnancy and experience twice the rate of stillbirth compared with white women. The report aimed to elevate the voices of black women, who are disproportionately exposed to illegal levels of air pollution but largely missing from conversations around clean air.”

Inequalities in Air Pollution Across England

There are also important differences in air pollution between the richest and least well-off areas. These differences are not confined to London. Across England, the greatest air pollution is found in the poorest and also in the least white communities. During the first decade of this century, the gap between air pollution in the most and least deprived places got worse, not better.

Vulnerability to Air Pollution

But looking at the quality of air that we breathe only shows us part of the problem. There is evidence that the least well-off are more vulnerable to air pollution. This includes studies from Italy and the UK.

In

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Indicator: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution.

2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
   • Indicator: Proportion of population living in households with access to basic services.

3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Indicator: Proportion of urban population living in slums or informal settlements.

Analysis

The article addresses several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their corresponding targets:

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The article highlights the health impacts of air pollution, specifically on pregnant women and children. It mentions that air pollution exposure can lead to preterm and low birth-weight babies, hinder children’s lung growth, increase the chance of childhood asthma, and worsen asthma symptoms. These health impacts are directly related to Target 3.9 of SDG 3, which aims to reduce deaths and illnesses from air pollution and hazardous chemicals.

2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

The article discusses the unequal burden of air pollution on different communities. It states that people of black or mixed ethnicities are more likely to live in the most polluted places, and there are important differences in air pollution between the richest and least well-off areas. This highlights the need to address environmental inequalities and promote social inclusion, which aligns with Target 10.2 of SDG 10.

3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

The article mentions the differences in air pollution between different areas, including urban areas. It states that the greatest air pollution is found in the poorest communities and in the least white communities. This relates to Target 11.6 of SDG 11, which aims to reduce the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality.

Based on the article’s content, the following targets and indicators can be identified:

Targets and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: theguardian.com

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