Initial lockdowns may have saved more than 800 lives due to cleaner air, experts say

NOx is a highly-pollutant emission that is produced by cars, buses, trucks, and other vehicles, and is the main driver of health issues such as breathing problems, reduced lung function, eye irritation, and even tooth corrosion. File photo

The first widespread lockdowns across Europe may have saved more than 800 lives as pollutants from transport plummeted, paving the way for cleaner air, scientists estimate.

The problem of poor air quality in Ireland has been in the spotlight in recent weeks, with experts such as UCC's Professor John Sodeau calling for a ban on coal, peat, and wood burning for home heating.