School Bus Emissions, Student Health, and Academic Performance

Diesel emissions from school buses expose children to high levels of air pollution; retrofitting bus engines can substantially reduce this exposure. Using variation from 2,656 retrofits across Georgia, this studyestimates effects of emissions reductions on district-level health and academic achievement. 

The authors demonstrate positive effects on respiratory health, measured by a statewide test of aerobic capacity.  They also find that retrofitting districts see significant test score gains in English and smaller gains in math. Results suggest that engine retrofits can have meaningful and cost-effective impacts on health and cognitive functioning.