Pollution is an ever growing problem. London’s air pollution crisis is shocking and an interactive map has been produced so you can look up how polluted the area is that you live or work in. Apparently the air that we breathe in London has much higher levels of pollution than believed.

Nitrogen dioxide levels are far too high in many of the parks,more than a quarter of them breach acceptable nitrogen dioxide levels, which have been analysed. Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Regents Park are among the most polluted. People living in deprived areas also seem to be hit harder than those living in more affluent streets. Children are particularly at risk.

Nitrogen dioxide is a waste gas produced by car exhaust fumes,factories and, surprisingly, wood burning stoves.

The elderly and those in poor health are more likely to be affected. City of London, Camden and Westminster are all in excess of the recommended levels.

The negative effects of air pollution are mostly associated with the lungs, but in addition,it can affect the scalp and may be a cause of hair. Children are more likely to suffer from asthma and once in the lings the polluted air particles can travel through the body into the brain and impede cognitive development.

Maybe this research will reinforce the need to use less fossil fuels and care more for the environment.