London - Drivers are exposed to 29 times more air pollution when they stop at red lights than when they are in free-moving traffic, research reveals.
Researchers from the University of Surrey measured the nano-particles that are emitted by vehicles and contribute to respiratory and heart diseases at various points on roads.
They found traffic signals were a hotbed of fumes due to drivers slowing down, stopping, then revving the engine before moving off.
And although sitting at red lights represented just 2 percent of the average car journey, it accounted for a quarter of the fumes the car’s occupants would inhale throughout the trip.
Lead researcher Dr Prashant Kumar said: “The best ways to limit your exposure is to keep vehicle windows shut, fans off and try to increase the distance between you and the car in front where possible.
“Pedestrians regularly crossing such routes should consider whether there might be other paths less dependent on traffic-light crossings.
“Local transport agencies could also help by synchronising traffic signals to reduce waiting time and consider alternative traffic management systems such as flyovers.”
Air pollution caused by traffic fumes and factory emissions is thought to contribute to the deaths of 29 000 people each year in Britain.
Daily Mail