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The Clean Transit Paradox: Elevated Particle Exposure and Health Impacts in Subway Microenvironments
Yuan Sun1, Wen Peng1, Miao He1,2,3
1Department of Environmental Physical Factors and Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
Environmental Science & Technology
|May 21, 2026
Summary
Subway air contains high levels of harmful particulate matter (PM) from train wear and passenger activity. This pollution poses significant health risks, necessitating urgent control strategies for cleaner urban transit.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Urban Planning
- Toxicology
Background:
- Subway systems are vital for urban mobility but contain elevated particulate matter (PM) levels.
- PM in enclosed subway environments presents unique health challenges compared to ambient air.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize global research on subway particulate matter (PM) characteristics, health risks, and control strategies.
- To highlight knowledge gaps and propose future research directions for subway air quality.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of global studies on subway PM.
- Analysis of PM composition, sources, health effects, and mitigation strategies.
Main Results:
- Subway PM concentrations exceed ambient levels, dominated by fine particles (PM2.5).
- Key PM components include wear particles, metals, microplastics, and biological agents, contributing to bioactivity.
- Exposure causes oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysfunction across respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological systems.
Conclusions:
- Addressing subway air quality is crucial for public health and sustainable urban transit.
- Further research is needed on PM composition, toxicity mechanisms, and health-based standards.
- Integrated exposure-control frameworks are essential for mitigating subway PM risks.
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