Air quality matters from the beginning of life. Clean air is essential during childhood, yet over 90% of children under 15 breathe polluted air that it jeopardizes future development. Young children compared to adults breathe faster and take in more dirty air. They are closer to the ground and crawl and constantly put things in their mouth. Children from lower income countries suffer from the highest levels of air pollution in the world.

 

Investing in clean air bring benefits such as:

Protecting babies from conception.

Prevents childhood illnesses.

Supports healthy development.

How can parents help better protect children from air pollution?

 

• Check the air quality in the area daily on AirNow.gov
• Keep children indoors when air pollution levels are high.
• If they must go out, protect them with a filtering and well-fitted mask.
• Install window and air filters at home, if possible.
• Use cleaner fuels and technologies to cook, heat and light your home, where possible.
• Provide children with food and drinks high in vitamin C, E and Omega-3 antioxidants.