(graphic image from AirParif shows less ozone in the central area of Paris. The legend reads: number of days with 8-hr ozone ozone concentration >100 mcg/m3, which is about 51ppb as the U.S. measures ozone.)
You might remember our recent post about London’s Low and Ultra-Low Emissions Zones, and how people now report fewer respiratory illnesses and that their feeling of satisfaction and well-being have improved.
Now Paris has a report that shows air quality improvements when they restricted cars, removed some car lanes, added parks and bike lanes, and removed parking spaces. The Washington Post and NDTV report about this, and how air pollution has improved as a result. Fine particle pollution (PM2.5, also called soot) levels have dropped 55% and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels have dropped 50% since 2005.
And, the Post reports, people who live in Paris like the new parks, bike lanes, and clean air so much, they recently voted to make another 500 streets pedestrian only.
Both London and Paris are showing the world how we can be healthier and thrive, with clean air.
AKMB 08/05/2025
