Relocating abroad with children is an exciting venture, filled with new cultures and opportunities. However, amidst the excitement of settling in, a critical consideration for every parent is the safety and well-being of their children.
This extends beyond immediate security concerns to encompass the broader environmental factors that can significantly impact their health. From air and water quality to the presence of potential contaminants, understanding these elements in your new expat neighborhood is paramount.
This article will guide you through key aspects to evaluate. We’ll empower you to make informed decisions and ensure a healthy and nurturing environment for your child’s growth.
Air Quality Considerations
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is one of the greatest environmental risks to child health. In 2019, an alarming 99% of the global population lived in areas where WHO air quality guidelines were not met.
Annually, around 6.7 million premature deaths are linked to both outdoor and household air pollution, with outdoor pollution alone causing 4.2 million deaths.
Before choosing a home, check resources like IQAir’s global index or local monitoring stations for neighborhood-specific data.
Practical solutions are:
- Install high-quality air purifiers with HEPA filtration in bedrooms and main living areas
- Create positive pressure environments through filtration systems in severe pollution areas
- Schedule outdoor activities during lower pollution times (typically early morning)
- Use air quality apps to monitor daily conditions and adjust activities accordingly
- Maintain indoor plants that naturally filter certain pollutants
Water Safety and Contaminant Exposure
Water safety is a vital consideration for expat families, as water quality can vary widely between countries and even within cities. Children are especially vulnerable to contaminants, which can impact everything from gut health to brain development.
A recent “Science” study revealed that over 4.4 billion people in low- and middle-income countries, more than half the global population, lack safe household drinking water. Even in countries like the U.S., where water goes through advanced treatment systems, issues still arise due to old infrastructure and leaky pipes. For expats, this means that tap water, even if technically “potable,” may not meet home-country standards.
Proactive water safety measures are:
- Test tap water upon move-in, particularly for lead, arsenic, nitrates and bacteria
- Install appropriate filtration systems based on test results (reverse osmosis for comprehensive protection)
- Use bottled water from reputable sources when necessary
- Consider whole-house filtration for bathing and showering in areas with significant concerns
- Regularly maintain and replace filters according to the manufacturer’s specifications
Chemical Exposure in Home and Community
Relocating to a new country means adapting to a different regulatory environment where the use and oversight of these chemicals can vary greatly. Particularly troubling are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can interfere with hormonal development, especially in children.
According to “Environmental Health News,” over 350,000 synthetic chemicals are produced globally, but only a small percentage have been tested for safety. The law in many countries places the burden on the government to prove harm, rather than requiring manufacturers to prove safety.
Relocating to a new country means adapting to a different regulatory environment where the use and oversight of these chemicals can vary greatly.
Experts advocate for reform, calling for independent chemical testing, transparent chemical footprint tracking and safer production practices.
To minimize chemical exposure:
- Choose housing with non-toxic building materials when possible
- Allow new furniture to “off-gas” outdoors or in well-ventilated areas before bringing it indoors
- Select fragrance-free, plant-based cleaning products
- Opt for natural fiber rugs, curtains and bedding
- Ventilate homes regularly, especially in newly constructed or renovated buildings
- Research local pest control practices and advocate for integrated pest management approaches
AFFF Contamination – An Emerging Concern
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) contamination is a growing health concern, particularly for expatriate families living near airports, military bases or industrial sites. AFFF, historically used to extinguish fuel fires, contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
TruLaw notes that AFFF exposure has been linked to numerous cancers and adverse health effects due to the non-degrading nature of PFAS chemicals. These substances can contaminate groundwater, drinking water sources and soil for decades, posing significant risks. Children are especially vulnerable to PFAS exposure due to their developing systems and higher water intake relative to their body weight.
The severity of this issue is underscored by the ongoing AFFF lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. According to the AFFF lawsuit update, over 10,000 cases have been filed in the United States related to AFFF exposure. While no global settlements or personal injury trials have occurred yet, the first bellwether trials are scheduled for 2025.
If your neighborhood has potential AFFF exposure risks, you need to:
- Request water testing specifically for PFAS compounds
- Consider high-quality reverse osmosis water filtration systems (certified for PFAS removal)
- Research whether local authorities are addressing contamination through remediation efforts
- Connect with community environmental health groups for updated information
- Consult with pediatric environmental health specialists if concerned about exposure
Green Space and Neighborhood Design
The physical layout and features of expatriate neighborhoods significantly impact children’s health through various pathways. Neighborhoods with accessible green spaces, walkable designs and limited vehicle traffic create environments conducive to physical activity and social connection.
According to NIH, research demonstrates that children with regular access to nature experience numerous health benefits. They include improved mental health outcomes, better concentration abilities, healthier weight profiles and enhanced immune function. Conversely, neighborhoods designed primarily for vehicles or offering minimal green space can contribute to sedentary behaviors and increased pollution exposure.
When evaluating potential expatriate neighborhoods, you need to:
- Assess walkability to schools, parks and daily needs
- Evaluate the quality and accessibility of local parks and green spaces
- Consider traffic patterns and vehicle speeds on neighborhood streets
- Observe neighborhood air quality during different times of day
FAQs
How can I assess environmental health risks before accepting an international assignment?
Before accepting an international assignment, thoroughly research the destination’s environmental health. Investigate air and water quality data from reliable sources like the WHO or local monitoring stations. Check for industrial activity, waste disposal practices and potential AFFF contamination near prospective housing. Understand access to healthcare.
What are the most essential mitigation tools for expatriate families concerned about environmental health?
Essential mitigation tools for expatriate families include air purifiers with HEPA filters, certified water filtration systems, non-toxic cleaning products and air quality monitoring apps. Regular home maintenance, avoiding high-traffic or industrial areas, and staying informed through trusted health resources can also help reduce exposure to environmental health risks.
How can I balance environmental health concerns with other expatriate family priorities?
Balance environmental health concerns with other expatriate family priorities by researching safe neighborhoods, accessing quality healthcare and ensuring clean air and water. Weigh these against education, cost of living and proximity to work. Prioritize locations offering a healthy environment without compromising on your family’s overall well-being and lifestyle needs.
Creating a healthy environment for children while navigating expatriate life requires awareness, research and sometimes creative problem-solving. While environmental health concerns exist in every community worldwide, expatriate parents face the additional challenge of understanding these risks in an unfamiliar culture.
Remember that perfect environments rarely exist. The goal is to minimize significant risks while maximizing health-promoting features.
