New study finds air pollution from traffic could be stunting children’s brain development: ‘Large consequences at the population level’
New study finds air pollution from traffic could be stunting children's brain development: 'Large consequences at the ... The Cool Down
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Study Finds Traffic-Related Air Pollution Affects Brain Development in Young Children
What’s happening?
Researchers at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) have discovered that exposure to nitrogen dioxide during the first two years of life can lead to reduced attention capacities in children aged four to eight. The study, published in the journal Environment International, found that boys are more susceptible to these effects compared to girls.
Why is this concerning?
The findings from ISGlobal indicate that the brain development of future generations could be at risk. Previous research has also shown a connection between air pollution and poorer attention function in children between the ages of four and five. Further investigation into the long-term effects of air pollution in older age groups is crucial.
What can be done about this?
In the United States, cars, trucks, and buses are the largest producers of nitrogen dioxide. The federal government has allocated billions of dollars to clean up the air, including investments in less polluting modes of transportation such as electric school buses and high-speed rail. Electric vehicles, which do not release pollution from their tailpipes, are available at discounted prices thanks to tax incentives. Private companies are also contributing to the efforts, with the construction of high-speed rail lines and other eco-friendly transportation options.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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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.
-
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 areas where air pollution levels exceed the World Health Organization’s Air Quality Guidelines.
Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets identified are:
- Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- 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.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution (Indicator for Target 3.9)
- Proportion of urban population living in areas where air pollution levels exceed the World Health Organization’s Air Quality Guidelines (Indicator for Target 11.6)
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution. |
| 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. | Proportion of urban population living in areas where air pollution levels exceed the World Health Organization’s Air Quality Guidelines. |
Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.
Fuente: thecooldown.com
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