Burnham urged to launch inquiry into unequal health impacts of air pollution
Summary
Scientists, politicians, and activists have called on UK leaders to investigate how air pollution affects poorer and minority communities more than others. Research shows that air pollution is linked to serious health problems, with children being especially vulnerable. Some cities still have illegal pollution levels, leading to many hospital visits for breathing problems.Key Facts
- Lower-income areas in England have higher air pollution than richer areas.
- Minority-ethnic groups experience about 6% more pollution than white groups.
- Air pollution causes diseases like heart problems, strokes, cancer, asthma, and affects children's lung growth.
- London’s low emission zone has helped improve air quality and children’s lung health.
- In 2025, parts of London, Glasgow, and Bristol still had illegal pollution levels.
- Over 200,000 children in 11 English cities were hospitalized for breathing issues in 2025.
- Children are more affected because their lungs are still growing and they breathe more air per body weight.
- In Manchester, hospital admissions for young children with lung problems rose from 653 in 2023 to 1,072 in 2025.
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