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Pedestrianizing streets around schools can reduce air pollution by almost a third


The Respire and AirGones associations are publishing this Friday “the first evaluation study” of ten « streets for schools » developments and their impact on air quality in Paris and Bagnolet. Measurements show a drop in nitrogen dioxide concentrations of up to 30%.

According to those who carried it out, this is the “first evaluation study” carried out on such a large scale, making it possible to affirm that the pedestrianization of « streets for schools » has a positive effect on the quality of air. Published this Friday, May 24 by the associations Respire (which works to improve air quality) and AirGones (specialized in measuring pollution), it shows that the arrangements put in place as part of the “ rue aux écoles”, in Paris, make it possible to reduce nitrogen dioxide concentrations around schools. This reduction would reach up to 30%, in the cases where it is the most marked.

Schools Championnet (18th arrondissement), Victoire (9th) or even du Jardinet (6th)… To carry out this study, the associations called on two specialized companies: Rincent Air and Pollutrack, which measured pollution in real time and over several weeks in and around ten schools (nine in Paris and one in the neighboring town of Bagnolet). The schools selected were chosen both for their strategic geographical positioning – due to their proximity to major roads – but also, for some, because pedestrianization work was planned during the summer.

A drop inside and around schools

Two measurement campaigns were carried out, with the aim of evaluating the impact of this work, using a “before and after” model. The first took place in June. The other, a few months later, in September. To carry out the measurements, the authors of the study installed sensors in playgrounds, classrooms and on the facades of the selected schools. They measured the concentration of nitrogen dioxide in the air, but also that of fine particles (PM2.5). « We first asked the district mayors for their agreement to install the sensors », reassures Tony Renucci, general director of the Respire association.

Full Article (Fr) : Libération

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