Abstract

Exposure to air pollution is recognized as a major environmental risk to human health, affecting vulnerable populations, particularly children. Studies suggest a link between air pollution and cognitive decline, including conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, with children facing heightened risks due to their developmental stage and increased inhalation rates. Particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) are associated with declines in memory, attention, and motor function in children. Recent research highlights the potential mitigating role of green spaces, which can enhance cognitive function by reducing pollution exposure, promoting stress recovery, and encouraging physical activity. In countries like Chile, however, a stark inequality in the distribution of green spaces exists alongside high pollution levels, particularly in Santiago. This study explores how green areas in Santiago might mitigate the negative effects of air pollution on children’s cognitive development, leveraging spatial variation across neighborhoods. By employing an individual fixed effects model using longitudinal data, the research investigates the interplay between air pollution, green spaces, and cognitive development. The results indicate that green spaces have a significant protective role, particularly in high-pollution areas. The findings support urban planning policies that prioritize the preservation and expansion of green spaces, particularly in heavily polluted urban environments, to safeguard children’s cognitive well-being. © AESS 2025.