Unhealthy Emissions from Fossil Fuels Accelerating Early Deaths of Millions Annually
In a sobering reminder of the impact of air pollution on health, a patient's comment about wearing a mask due to fossil fuel pollution from cars reminded a doctor of her uncle in India who also wears a mask due to similar air quality issues. This connection underscores the global reach of air pollution caused by the burning of fossil fuels.
A new study, published in the journal Environmental Research, takes a comprehensive look at this issue, suggesting that more than 8 million people die prematurely each year due to air pollution connected to fossil fuels. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates over 4 million premature deaths annually from outdoor air pollution, primarily fine particulate matter (PM2.5), much of which comes from burning coal, oil, and gas.
Specific pollutants such as PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), black carbon, and tropospheric ozone from fossil fuels contribute significantly to heart disease, stroke, chronic respiratory illness, diabetes, and asthma, leading to these deaths.
To reduce this toll, global leaders can take several key actions. Phasing out fossil fuels and transitioning to clean, renewable energy sources reduces emissions of particulate matter and other harmful pollutants, substantially decreasing premature deaths linked to air pollution.
Implementing and strengthening air quality standards can yield significant health benefits with relatively low costs. Promoting alternative fuels and clean transport, integrating climate and health policies, and urban planning to support healthy lifestyles also contribute to reducing air pollution and improving health.
The study estimates that India sees 2.46 million premature deaths a year due to fossil fuel-created air pollution. The world continuing to run on oil, coal, and gas will result in the suffering of those living closest to polluters.
However, it's important to note that the estimates from the study may be underestimates. The world is at a critical juncture where action is needed to address fossil fuel-created air pollution to improve global health and reduce premature deaths.
President Joe Biden is urged to transition off dirty sources of energy and fuel as soon as possible to address the climate crisis and save many lives. The study findings emphasize the importance of addressing fossil fuel-created air pollution to improve global health and reduce premature deaths, potentially preventing over a million deaths annually by 2040 through targeted action.
Clean renewable energy and electric vehicles are presented as alternatives to fossil fuels, which can dramatically clean the air and contribute to healthier people and a more habitable planet in the long term. Increased awareness and action can lead to a healthier planet and longer lives for people worldwide.
The study focuses on PM 2.5, a type of particulate matter that can enter the bloodstream when inhaled. However, Asia and Africa have less solid findings due to limited data availability. The Frontline is a daily reminder that lives are on the line due to the impact of fossil fuels on air quality and health.
References:
- Link to the study
- Link to the WHO report
- Link to the U.S. EPA analysis
- The study, published in the journal Environmental Research, highlights that more than 8 million people die prematurely each year due to air pollution linked to fossil fuels, with over 4 million from outdoor air pollution primarily caused by the burning of coal, oil, and gas.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that specific pollutants such as PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), black carbon, and tropospheric ozone from fossil fuels contribute significantly to health issues like heart disease, stroke, chronic respiratory illness, diabetes, and asthma, leading to these premature deaths.
- To improve global health and reduce premature deaths, global leaders can take actions like phasing out fossil fuels, implementing stronger air quality standards, promoting alternative fuels and clean transport, integrating climate and health policies, and urban planning that supports healthy lifestyles.
- The study's findings suggest that by taking targeted action, it is possible to prevent over a million deaths annually by 2040, emphasizing the importance of addressing fossil fuel-created air pollution for improved global health.
