Lung expert says putting Perth on a ‘road diet’ will protect our health

The Institute for Respiratory Health welcomes recommendations to put popular shopping strips on a “road diet” under a new proposal as this will help to tackle air pollution from car emissions and help to protect people’s lungs.  

“We need to see a shift away from the use of vehicles, which are a major source of pollutants in our suburbs and city,” Professor Yuben Moodley said.

“Air pollutant emissions emitted by cars exhausts include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds (VOC).

“Diesel cars are of particular concern as they give off high levels of nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter (small particles suspended in the air including dust, dirt, soot and smoke) that can lead to lung disease and impact those with asthma.

“Research has also shown that children are particularly vulnerable to car air pollutants and it can increase the prevalence of childhood asthma and wheeze,” Professor Moodley said.

“More green spaces will make our city more attractive it also encourages physical activity, motivating people to walk and cycle – which is all great for your health and lungs too.”

Many cities in Europe introduced carless zones decades ago including Copenhagen, Barcelona and Amsterdam. They realised our dependence on cars is hurting our health and wellbeing.

The pedestrian-friendly vision is the brainchild of group of researchers from the Telethon Kids Institute, Curtin University and the University of Southern Denmark.

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