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Improving Children’s Air Quality Through Behavioural Science: The Bradford Schools Initiative

Impact: Environmental

Description of impact

This initiative applies behavioural science approaches to improve air quality awareness and exposure reduction in schools across Bradford. Working with schools, communities, and stakeholders, the project supports evidence-based behaviour change interventions aimed at reducing children’s exposure to air pollution, promoting healthier school environments, and informing local sustainability and public health strategies. The initiative demonstrates the practical application of behavioural science to deliver measurable environmental and social impact within educational settings.

Who is affected

The initiative primarily affects school children, teachers, parents, and local communities in Bradford, particularly those exposed to high levels of traffic-related air pollution around schools. It also supports local authorities, public health organisations, and schools by providing evidence-based behavioural insights to inform cleaner air policies, healthier travel behaviours, and sustainable environmental practices. Indirectly, the project contributes to wider societal benefits through improved public health awareness, reduced pollution exposure, and stronger community engagement in environmental action.

Narrative

This initiative addresses the growing challenge of poor air quality and its impact on children’s health and wellbeing in Bradford. Using behavioural science methods, the project works collaboratively with schools, families, and local stakeholders to understand and influence behaviours linked to pollution exposure around school environments. Through evidence-based interventions, awareness activities, and community engagement, the initiative encourages healthier and more sustainable practices such as active travel, reduced vehicle idling, and greater environmental awareness. The project aims to create healthier school environments, support public health outcomes, and contribute to local and regional clean air strategies while demonstrating the real-world impact of behavioural science in addressing environmental and societal challenges.
Impact statusAchieved
Category of impactEnvironmental
Impact levelNational