RESEARCH by University of York scientists has suggested that using off-road cycle routes in the city significantly reduces cyclists’ exposure to air pollution compared with on-road cycle lanes.
The university’s environment department, working in collaboration with City of York Council, monitored exposure to the air pollutant nitrogen dioxide on both types of cycle routes over a two-month period.
The study, published in the Journal of Environmental Monitoring, shows the total dose of the pollutant, taking into account the duration of the cycle journeys, was reduced by seven per cent to 35 per cent when cycling on off-road routes.
High doses of the pollutant, which is mainly emitted from vehicles, can inflame the lungs, while prolonged exposure to lower doses can reduce the ability of the lung to function, especially in people with weak respiratory immune systems, such as asthmatics and senior citizens.
The university said the research provided a simple and cost effective method for other local authorities to quantify the exposure of cyclists to nitrogen dioxide.
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