University of Copenhagen
Marie Pedersen
About air pollution.
My research focuses on the impact of air pollution on public health – especially among young children. My primary aim is to understand the long-term health effects of exposure to air pollution early in life and during pregnancy.
Our studies show that exposure in the foetal stage causes DNA damage that may lead to growth retardation, lung diseases and weakened immune systems. Our findings emphasise the importance of continuing to reduce air pollution in order to promote public health for young children and future generations.
The extensive health consequences of air pollution here and in the rest of the world are an argument in favour of reorganising our society so that we are not exposed to air that damages our health.
For that reason, my research also plays a central role in the green transition: Reducing air pollution may help mitigate climate change and contribute to sustainability. By switching from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources, and by changing our diet, consumption and transportation habits, we can improve air quality and also promote public health, preserve the earth's resources and reduce our carbon footprint.
”By understanding how pollution affects our health, we can lay the foundations of policy changes that contribute to a more sustainable future for both people and planet.
Meet the researcher
Marie Pedersen is associate professor at the Department of Public Health at the University of Copenhagen.