Abstract
This study demonstrates a simple method to estimate the extent to which the exposure of cyclists to NO2 is reduced by using off-road cycle routes rather than on-road cycle routes. Diffusion tubes were used to measure monthly NO2 concentrations on three paired sets of on- and off-road cycle journeys in and around the City of York in August and September 2008. These measurements were combined with estimates of journey times to calculate time-weighted average concentration and exposure on each route. The average concentration of NO2 was significantly reduced by a mean of 37.5% when off-road routes were used in place of on-road routes and, despite the longer journey times for off-road routes, exposure was also significantly reduced by a mean of 25.5%. The method described in this study could be adopted more widely to provide a cost effective and simple means of assessing the benefits of alternative cycle routes that are provided by Local Authorities.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1039-1045 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Environmental Monitoring |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Apr 2011 |
Keywords
- AMBIENT AIR-POLLUTION
- RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS
- COHORT
- HEALTH