Sonoma Technology and EPA Help Schools Reduce Exposure to Traffic-Related Air Pollution

Nearly 17,000 schools in the United States are located fewer than 1,000 feet from heavily used roads, exposing children to traffic-related air pollutants that are linked to a variety of short- and long-term health effects. Sonoma Technology and our study partner, Arup, worked with the U.S. EPA to develop the <a href="https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=P1013GDE.pdf" target="_blank"><i>Best Practices for Reducing Near-Road Air Pollution Exposure at Schools</i> guidebook</a href>. EPA published the first version of the guidebook in 2015 and our updated version in 2021. The 2021 guidebook includes new sections such as air quality monitoring with lower-cost sensors. The publication offers schools strategies to reduce student exposure to traffic-related air pollution.</p>
Strategies identified in the publication are rooted in practical experience and have already been successfully implemented in schools and communities across the country. Best practices covered include:</p>
<ul><li>Mechanical ventilation and filtration</li>
<li>Passive and natural ventilation</li>
<li>Actions that building occupants can take</li>
<li>School site location and design</li>
<li>Transportation management policies</li>
<li>Roadside barriers</li></ul></p>
The guidebook also provides a mechanical ventilation and filtration system assessment checklist to help schools improve classroom air quality.</p>
As part of our work, we conducted literature reviews on near-road health concerns, mitigation strategies, and best practices for reducing exposure. In addition, we assessed analysis tools to support near-road/smart growth planning and developed case study material illustrating near-road planning principles to reduce pollutant exposure. Final products, all available from <a href="https://www.epa.gov/mobile-source-pollution/how-mobile-source-pollution-affects-your-health/" target="_blank">EPA’s website</a href>, include the guidebook, case studies, a summary infographic, and a list of additional resources to help school officials.