Virtual reality (VR) could be key to reducing the exposure of pedestrians and cyclists to harmful, non-exhaust vehicle emissions, according to a University of Birmingham study.

Cyclists and pedestrians in city centres are exposed to numerous particle pollutants through the release of small particles from brakes, tyres and roads.

These pollutants, which often cannot be seen by the naked eye, are harmful to human health, putting those in city centres at risk of serious diseases.

In a study led by the University of Birmingham, researchers created detailed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models to simulate the release and dispersion of these particles from vehicles. These models helped them identify the key moments in people’s daily journeys where exposure risk is highest.

The CFD files were converted into VR models to create an immersive experience for the user. The aim was to then show these VR models to the general public, revealing to them where the pollutants are most pervasive. Armed...