Why Are Children Most At Risk?

• Children are exposed to greater levels of pollution relative to their body weight.
• Their developing organs are more sensitive to toxins.
• The toxins are retained in children’s bodies longer than adults

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University of Texas

A study done on 1,895 4th and 5th graders in El Paso, Texas, USA.
Children who were exposed to high levels of motor vehicle emissions had significantly lower GPAs (Grade Point Average)
There could be two explanations for this:

1. Air pollution makes children sick and could lead to absenteeism and poor performance, or
2. Exposure to air pollution negatively affects neurological and brain development.

National Bureau of Economic Reserach

A study done on high school students in Israel.
The study was on the impact of short term exposure to ambient air pollution on cognitive performance.
Finding: a significant and negative relationship between average PM 2.5 exposure during exams on student performance and cognitive functioning.
(Paper issued October 2014)