Abstract/Summary

This dissertation explores the intersection of both air quality improvement strategies and urban morphology on health outcomes within diverse socioeconomic strata of London's population. This work systematically reviews the methodologically diverse efficacy evidence of dual indoor and outdoor combined interventions to reduce exposure to traffic-related air pollution concentration, more particularly investigating the synergistic potential to improve health across different social groups. A multi-tier exposure model was employed to estimate PM2.5 concentrations across various environments, including indoor spaces, transportation, and outdoor areas. The results show a significant reduction in PM2.5 exposure when considering indoor infiltration rates, with exposure levels indoors being 45% lower than those experienced outdoors. However, exposure during transit, particularly on the London Underground, was found to significantly elevate total exposure levels, despite limited time spent in this environment. The research also examined the effects of urban form on NO2 distribution, finding that urban design interventions, such as optimising building heights and increasing tree canopy cover, can reduce NO2 concentrations by up to 7 μg/m³. Additionally, the analysis of air pollution levels during the COVID-19 lockdown period revealed substantial reductions in both PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations, particularly benefiting lower socioeconomic groups due to reduced transportation activity. Indoor air quality interventions, specifically the use of air purifiers, were shown to be highly effective in reducing PM2.5 concentrations by over 45%, leading to the prevention of more than 1000 annual mortalities. Continuous operation of air purifiers was found to be the most cost-effective strategy, yielding net economic benefits of approximately £1.006 billion. The study highlights the importance of considering both indoor and outdoor environments when addressing urban air pollution. It also emphasizes the need for tailored interventions that account for socioeconomic disparities, as more deprived areas tend to experience higher health benefits but also greater variability in outcomes. Overall, this dissertation provides robust evidence supporting the integration of indoor and outdoor air quality management strategies to improve public health. It offers practical insights for policymakers and urban planners, advocating for comprehensive, equitable, and cost-effective approaches to reduce the health burden of urban air pollution.