Human Health and Traffic Related Air Pollution

by | May 20, 2026 | Lung Health Information | 0 comments

"Human health & traffic Related Air Polution" Overlaid on Transport Trucks. Transportation including shipping is the Number 1 Cause of Air Polution

Every year, approximately 1,200 Canadians die prematurely from traffic-related air pollution. Emissions from road traffic are one of the largest sources of air pollution, containing harmful air pollutants including nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter.  

Children are at an even greater risk of long-term damage because of their more sensitive, still-developing lungs and faster rates of breathing. 

Short-Term Exposure

Even short-term exposure to air pollution can aggravate symptoms of existing respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD. This can often  like shortness of breath, weakness and exhaustion, wheezing, coughing, and trouble breathing.  

Long Term Exposure

Consistent or prolonged exposure to exhaust pollution results in higher cases of bronchitis and asthma diagnoses, and an increase in COPD prevalence. Our lungs and heart are so closely connected that when we talk about air quality, we’re also talking about heart health. Over time, breathing in polluted air can add strain on the lungs and force the heart to work harder, increasing the risk of heart disease. We see these long-term health outcomes in bus drivers and students who ride school buses, in communities near major roadways, and even among commuters moving in heavy traffic for an hour or more each day. 

Changing Our Priorities

The solution is simple, although not always easy: fewer gas-powered vehicles on the road.  
 
Many of us can choose another option for our commutes and short trips. Public transit, electric vehicles, carpooling, biking, and walking all reduce the exhaust emissions within our communities. When more people adopt healthy transportation, we will have cleaner air, and quieter, healthier neighbourhoods.  
 
Imagine school drop offs that aren’t surrounded by idling diesel trucks and gas cars – instead children being driven by electric school buses or by biking would start their days without breathing in polluted air. 

Take Action for Lung Health

NB Lung is championing the electrification of  school bus fleets and is looking for your support – Join NB Lung and concerned community members across Atlantic Canada in signing this petition to support electric school buses in your province.  https://nblung.ca/advocacy/electric-school-buses/

Electrify our Children's School Buses

In 2024, NB Lung partnered with the Ecology Action Centre of Nova Scotia and the Conservation Council of New Brunswick to develop the “Driving Towards a Healthier Future” report. The report shares the health and community benefits of ESBs and the harms that diesel buses are causing to students, bus drivers, and communities. Check it out to read even more details on how tailpipe emissions from regular school buses are impacting our students, and how electric school buses are the solution.