Breathe better air, and you might just become smarter. It might sound too good to be true, but research conducted in New York City shows that improving air quality can lead to increased IQ levels. Even small reductions in pollution, it turns out, can have a measurable impact on our brain health.
The link between air quality and IQ
In a study conducted at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, researchers found that children who were exposed to cleaner air achieved higher IQ scores than their counterparts who lived in more polluted areas. The team estimated that even a small improvement in air quality could lead to a significant increase in lifetime earnings for over 60,000 children—about $215 million in total.
These findings build upon earlier research that discovered an association between pregnant women’s exposure to air pollutants called PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon) and the subsequent IQ scores of their children at age five. In other words, in utero exposure to harmful air pollution has significant, lasting effects on cognitive development.
As researcher Frederica Perera explains, “Our analysis suggests that a modest reduction in urban air pollution would provide substantial economic benefits and help children realize their full potential.”
How air pollution affects the brain
Air pollution doesn’t just harm our lungs—it can also impact the structure and functionality of our brains. PAHs, which are released during the burning of fossil fuels and organic materials, are a primary component of urban air pollution. They can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact, and are known to cause a wide range of negative health effects.
Once in the body, these pollutants can interfere with key brain development processes, altering the formation of neural connections and leading to cognitive deficits. Studies on rodents have shown that exposure to PAHs impairs learning, memory, and attention, while similar research in humans has found lower IQ scores and decreased motor skills in children exposed to these chemicals during early development.
What can be done?
So, what does this mean for individuals and communities looking to protect their brain health and optimize cognitive potential? The overarching message is that even small, incremental improvements in air quality have the potential to yield significant gains for both individuals and society as a whole.
Although much of the responsibility for improving air quality lies with policymakers and industry leaders from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are still steps that individuals can take to reduce their exposure to air pollution and support better brain health:
- Stay informed about your local air quality. Keep track of the Air Quality Index (AQI) in your area and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
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Improve your indoor air quality. Use air purifiers, vacuum regularly, and keep windows closed during high-pollution days.
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Protect your skin. PAHs can be absorbed through your skin, so avoid skin contact with urban grime and wear gloves when working with contaminated materials.
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Foster green spaces in urban environments. Trees and plants help to filter pollutants from the air and provide cleaner air for our respiratory and cognitive health.
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Support clean energy and transportation initiatives. Advocate for public transit, bike lanes, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure in your community.
Better air for a brighter future
Improving air quality is not just a matter of addressing environmental concerns—it’s also a critical public health issue that has far-reaching implications for human cognitive development and potential. By making a conscious effort to reduce air pollution, we can create a healthier world for ourselves and future generations, all while unlocking new levels of intelligence and creativity.
