The Effects of Fine Dust on Children's Health: The Moderating Effects of Poverty and Green Area Ratio

We live under substantial influence of our surrounding environment, and children are more vulnerable to climate hazards such as fine dust (PM10). However, there is a dearth of research confirming the multifaceted effects of fine dust on children's physical and mental health. This study clarifies the relationship between PM10 and children’s health, examining the moderating effects of poverty and green area ratio. The results were as follows. First, fine dust (PM10) has a negative impact on the physical and mental health of children. Second, the effect of PM10 on children’s mental health is moderated by the green area ratio of the children’s residences. Based on the results of this study, a disaster welfare policy is proposed to protect climate change-vulnerable populations from fine dust.