'Controlled Burns' Better for Kids' Health Than Wildfires: Study

THURSDAY, May 30, 2019 -- Recent forest fires in the western United States have put a spotlight on a fire-management approach called controlled burning. Health researchers are weighing in, too, saying controlled burns pose less of an air pollution risk to children than wildfires.

Controlled, or prescribed, burns are done to reduce levels of material that can feed wildfires.

Breathe Easier, New York City: Clean-Air Taxi Rules Are Working

WEDNESDAY, May 29, 2019 -- Clean-air taxi rules in New York City increased cabs' fuel efficiency and reduced air pollution, a new study says.

Legislation introduced in 2006 required at least 9% of new medallions, or licenses, for yellow cabs be set aside for hybrid or compressed natural gas vehicles. It also encouraged companies to purchase low-emission taxis.

Cleaner Air Linked to Lower Asthma Rates in Kids

TUESDAY, May 21, 2019 -- Air pollution levels have been declining for years, and researchers can now show that cleaner air is linked to fewer kids developing asthma.

The new study looked at nine California communities. The researchers found that reductions in certain pollutants were tied to about a 20% reduction in the odds of children developing asthma, a chronic airway disease.