In the heart of Europe, Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium, is facing a persistent threat to its residents’ health: air pollution.
Recent studies have revealed that air quality is not a uniform concern across the city but rather a burden disproportionately borne by its most vulnerable communities.
A grave statistic underscores this reality: approximately 1,000 lives are claimed by air pollution in Brussels annually.
While measures have been taken to mitigate this crisis, including the implementation of low-emission zones to curb vehicle emissions, the battle for cleaner air rages on, particularly in the city’s poorer neighbourhoods.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Climate, Zakia Khattabi, has raised a clarion call, citing the shocking revelation that individuals raised in Saint-Josse-ten-Node face a life expectancy five years shorter than those residing in Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, attributed directly to air quality discrepancies.
The correlation between socioeconomic status and air quality cannot be ignored. A comprehensive citizen survey conducted two years ago unearthed the harsh reality that pollution in Brussels is deeply intertwined with income disparities.
Those residing in impoverished areas often find themselves breathing air of markedly inferior quality compared to their affluent counterparts.
This discrepancy can be attributed to a multitude of factors, including the scarcity of green spaces, which act as vital air purifiers, and the unfortunate proximity of disadvantaged neighbourhoods to busy thoroughfares.
A deeper dive into the data reveals a distressing truth: residents of deprived neighbourhoods face a doubled risk of premature death before the age of 75. Such a disparity in life expectancy based on postal code is not only unacceptable but serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for action.
Addressing the issue head-on, Minister Khattabi highlighted the pivotal role of mobility policies in shaping air quality. The “Good Move” Regional Mobility Plan, implemented in select areas, including the City of Brussels and Schaerbeek, emphasizes local mobility and public transport as viable solutions.
While initial reactions to the plan were met with resistance, particularly in Schaerbeek, where protests ensued, tangible improvements have been witnessed. Pedestrian and cyclist numbers have surged, and major thoroughfares have seen a reduction in car traffic.
Khattabi stressed the importance of bolstering public transportation networks as a cornerstone of the solution. She acknowledged the existing public transit system’s shortcomings, citing its costliness and inefficiency.
However, she underscored the need for continued investment in public transit infrastructure, advocating for improved tram and bus lines and increased frequency to incentivize commuters to opt for public transit over private vehicles.
In the quest for cleaner air, Minister Khattabi urged a strategic allocation of resources, cautioning against excessive expenditure on projects such as the controversial Metro 3 line.
Instead, she championed a holistic approach that prioritizes the enhancement of existing public transit options.
As Brussels grapples with the multifaceted challenge of air pollution, it is imperative that concerted efforts be made to bridge the socioeconomic divide that exacerbates this crisis.
The city can aspire to breathe freely and equitably through collaborative action and unwavering commitment.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
