Air pollution has long been an issue of global concern. A research team led by Professor Ho Wing-kei, Head of the Department of Science and Environmental Studies and Dr Deng Wenjing, Associate Professor of the Department of Science and Environmental Studies at the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), has conducted a study on indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools. Their research focuses on harmful substances in the air and their impact on children's health, specifically examining emerging air pollutants including endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The team recently travelled to Sri Lanka to conduct educational and promotional activities related to IAQ, and disseminate their research findings overseas.

Many regions around the world currently lack guidelines for indoor air quality in schools. Dr Deng and Professor Ho recently embarked on a series of promotional activities in Sri Lanka, including workshops and STEM activities aimed at raising awareness about IAQ. The initiative received strong support from local principals and teachers in the Kandy, Ratnapura, and Kegalle districts, attracting over 1,000 students from 25 schools, including Swarnamali College, Sylvester College, Hemamali College, St. Aloysius College, Mary’s College, and Trinity College. The Environmental Brigade and the Science Club of St. Kegalle and Trinity College also joined the programme. Through these activities, the team deepened the understanding of students and teachers regarding the impact of air pollutants on health and emphasised the importance of global environmental sustainability. 

EdUHK’s research team is the first team in Hong Kong to have detected EDCs and bacteria in a school environment, with research locations extending to Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Guangxi, and Belgium. The results indicate that children may be exposed to these harmful substances through non-dietary routes, highlighting the critical importance of indoor air quality in schools. Professor Ho, the co-investigator of the research project, said, “Air quality issues affect students' development. We hope local governments will pay attention to air quality and understand the health impacts of children's exposure to EDCs and bacteria in the air. Together, we can contribute to improving global air pollution and safeguarding our next generation.”

Dr Deng, the principal investigator of the project said, “Sri Lanka is the first pilot site for our overseas promotion plan. We are pleased to have received supports from the Ministry of Environment and the Central Environmental Authority. In the future, we plan to expand to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Nepal to raise awareness internationally and create healthy learning environments for students and youth.” 

This follows on from a similar study in early 2024, in which Dr Deng and Professor Ho conducted multiple workshops and STEM activities in Hong Kong's primary and secondary schools to increase public awareness of IAQ. 

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