Clean air, healthy childhood

On 26 June 2025, the British Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) published the report “Clean Air, Healthy Childhoods”. This report offers a sobering look at the impact of air pollution on children’s health in the United Kingdom. The message is clear: air pollution is a silent threat that causes harm as early as pregnancy and affects our children for life.

Children breathe faster than adults and spend a lot of time outdoors, which makes them especially vulnerable to air pollution. The consequences are far-reaching: an increased risk of asthma, lung infections, stunted lung growth and even adverse effects on brain development. The report shows that air pollution is not just an environmental problem, but an urgent public health issue that requires policy action.

Unfair distribution

The report highlights the unequal distribution of this health burden. Children in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, with less access to green and safe play areas, are at greater risk. Air pollution aggravates existing health inequalities, so that vulnerable groups are hit hardest.

What needs to be done?

The RCPCH calls for systemic action. Key recommendations include:

• Build health criteria into urban design (e.g. low-traffic zones, more green space).
• More and better air quality measurements, including in schools and childcare centres.
• Better cooperation between policymakers, health services and urban planners.
• Raising awareness among parents and carers of the dangers of air pollution.

The role of professionals

Paediatricians, GPs and health professionals are urged to take an active part in raising awareness and influencing policy. According to the report, they are key figures in bringing about change and protecting families.

Why this concerns us all

Although this report focuses on the UK, its findings are relevant to every country struggling with air pollution. In Belgium, too, many cities fail to meet the WHO standards. A healthy childhood starts with clean air. This report is a wake-up call we must not ignore.

Conclusion

The report “Clean Air, Healthy Childhoods” is both scientifically substantiated and a moral call to action. Clean air is not a luxury but a child’s right. As a society, we have a responsibility to protect this generation and the next from this invisible but harmful threat. Time to give breathing space, literally and figuratively.

Source: https://www.rcpch.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2025-06/clean-air-healthy-childhoods-report-2025.pdf