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Recently, Westminster City School has taken the initiative to install air pollution monitors around the school site at Palace Street. Results are now back from the laboratory, and our Wellbeing and Environment Committee members, Daniel and Renae have outlined some key findings.

Legal limits for nitrogen dioxide are 40mg/m cubed, we are glad to say that despite Westminster City School’s close proximity to Victoria Street, as well as the underground line running underneath our school, we have stayed well within recommended levels.

The average nitrogen levels for the school site are 27.8mg/m cubed whilst within the city of Westminster, levels are at 44mg/m cubed. Hence, current school initiatives of green spaces have been largely successful. However, within the school community we strive for excellence, and we hope to soon lower nitrogen levels as there are no safe levels of air pollution. 

Year 12 student Daniel, who is one of the lead representatives of the Wellbeing and Environment Committee commented on the findings saying:

“The nitrogen report has made it clear that our school is moving in the right direction in terms of air quality. However, it also provides a robust action plan for the committee to excel and make the air cleaner and the school greener.

“I hope to do this through the implementation of a green wall at the entrance of the school which is where nitrogen levels peak at 30.1ug/m cubed. Despite this being below national laws, the notion that this could encourage asthma attacks and future health problems is a consistent reminder of my duty to ensure that Westminster City School remains ahead in environmental goals.

“Over the next few months, I hope to encourage education on the causes and consequences of air pollution as well as mitigate and reduce carbon and nitrogen emissions within our community.”

Year 12 student Renae, who is also a lead representative of the Wellbeing and Environment Committee added:

“Our well-being is greatly affected by the environment. Air pollution can result in respiratory diseases, allergies, and asthma attacks. 1 in 11 children and young people are affected by the condition; it can also greatly affect mental health by raising the likelihood of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. Being exposed to outdoor air pollutants has been connected to symptoms of depression and difficulties with cognitive abilities, impacting memory, attention, and overall cognitive function.

Children are especially at risk for the negative consequences of air pollution on mental health, which can lead to behavioural problems and neurodevelopmental disorders. Living in areas with high levels of air pollution can result in chronic stress, anxiety, and psychological distress. While the exact mechanisms are still being researched, it is evident that reducing air pollution and limiting exposure can contribute to better mental well-being. Addressing air pollution through sustainable practices can not only combat air pollution but also poor mental health.

Miss Baulcomb, Subject Leader of Geography and Associate Assistant Headteacher at Westminster City School who led the study commented:

“When Asthma and Lung UK reached out to offer us the opportunity to have air pollution monitors installed at our school for a month, we jumped at the chance to take part in the programme.

“As Geographers, we believe it is important for the young people in our community to be more aware of the environmental issues that exist in our city and how they might impact us. We are looking forward to using the data provided by the study to inspire our students to act on tackling air pollution, both within and beyond the school site.”