Cycling and Air Pollution: Tips for Staying Safe

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cyclist riding toward air pollution
Cycling is a great way to get exercise, reduce traffic congestion, and lower your carbon footprint. However, cycling in urban areas can expose you to high levels of air pollution, which can have negative effects on your health. In this post, we'll explore the link between cycling and air pollution and provide tips for reducing your exposure to harmful pollutants.

Air pollution is a major health concern in urban areas around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for an estimated 4.2 million deaths every year. In urban areas, the main sources of air pollution are transportation, industry, and energy production. Cycling can help reduce air pollution by reducing the number of cars on the road, but it can also expose you to high levels of pollutants, especially if you're cycling in heavy traffic.

The main types of air pollutants that cyclists are exposed to are particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3). PM is a mixture of small particles and liquid droplets that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems. NO2 is a gas that is mainly produced by diesel engines and can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems. O3 is a gas that is formed by a chemical reaction between NO2 and other pollutants and can cause respiratory problems and reduce lung function.

To reduce your exposure to air pollution while cycling, here are some tips:

Plan your route: Avoid busy roads and intersections where pollution levels are likely to be highest. Look for alternative routes that take you through quieter streets, parks, or bike paths.

Time your ride: Avoid cycling during rush hour when traffic levels are highest and pollution levels are likely to be highest. Consider cycling in the early morning or late evening when traffic levels are lower.

Wear a mask: Consider wearing a mask that is designed to filter out PM and other pollutants. Look for a mask that is comfortable, breathable, and has a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

Use a pollution monitor: Consider using a portable air pollution monitor that can measure PM, NO2, and other pollutants. This can help you choose routes with lower pollution levels and track your exposure to pollutants over time.

Cycling is a great way to get exercise and reduce your carbon footprint, but it's important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with air pollution. By following these tips and taking steps to reduce your exposure to pollutants, you can enjoy the benefits of cycling while staying healthy and safe.

Citations:

World Health Organization. (2018). Ambient air pollution: Health impacts. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. (2017). Air Pollution in the UK 2017. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/661203/Air_Pollution_in_the_UK_2017.pdf

European Environment Agency. (2020). Air pollution. https://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/air

Lee, C. Y., Chen, S. Y., & Chen, H. H. (2018). Exposure assessment of airborne particulate matter during bicycle commuting: A case study in Taipei. Journal of Environmental Management, 217, 443-450. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.03.005

Kubesch, N. J., De Nazelle, A., Westerdahl, D., Martinez, D., Carrasco-Turigas, G., Bouso, L., & Nieuwenhuijsen, M.

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