According to one assessment, the emissions-reducing policy has also boosted productivity.
York University’s study of Bradford’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) claims a £180.84million boost to the regional economy since the scheme launched 22 months ago. Lower primary care spend, health benefits from reduced morbidity, and more expansive social gains are all factored into the estimate.
The West Yorkshire CAZ is now the first in the country to undergo a health impact assessment, with the UK Government flagging the study as of ‘national importance’. Born in Bradford, the public awareness organisation responsible for communications related to the scheme, also published interim data ahead of a full assessment on the impact next year, which came to similar conclusions.
‘Bradford’s Clean Air Zone was introduced to reduce harmful emissions and improve air quality across the district,’ said Cllr Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places. ‘By encouraging cleaner vehicles and reducing pollution, the CAZ is now proven to be protecting vulnerable residents, improving long-term health outcomes, and supporting a healthier, more sustainable Bradford for future generations.’
The University of York’s study shows that prior to the CAZ being introduced, 35% of patients visiting GPs presented with breathing issues. Around half of these wound up in A&E.
This included people with conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. One year after the clean air scheme launched, average months visits to GPs had fallen by 25%, and 24% for cardiovascular health.
‘This exploratory analysis suggests that the health and wider economic benefits of Bradford’s Clean Air Zone may be substantial,’ said a spokesperson from the York Centre for Health Economics. ‘The CAZ appears to be an effective population wide environmental policy, that can deliver measurable improvements in quality of life and economic sustainability.’
Image: Joseph Mama / Unsplash
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