Meeting climate change targets will, however, require action across all sectors. This dollar figure also represents the value of damages … Urban networks such as C40 Cities, ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability), and the Global Covenant of Mayors are increasingly influential, and cities are beginning to respond by creating partnerships that bring different groups together to take a holistic approach at the city scale. If ventilation is reduced by more than that suggested by regulations, however, the effect on health is likely to be negative overall, with more than 700 QALYs lost per 10 000 people over 50 years because of increases in indoor generated pollutants.10 It is therefore important that measures are carefully designed, installed, operated, and maintained. Co-benefits provide an additional argument for acting on climate change. Some of the other benefits of trees are: Trees can absorb and retain water. NOTE: We only request your email address so that the person you are recommending the page to knows that you wanted them to see it, and that it is not junk mail. In June 2019 the UK legally committed to cut emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases to net zero by 2050.1 To reach this target the Committee on Climate Change says that a rapid transformation in infrastructure will be required across all sectors of the economy.2 What is less widely appreciated is that many of the required actions can improve the health of the UK population.3 These ancillary effects on health are commonly referred to as co-benefits, although since not all are beneficial “co-effects” is more accurate. Top military officials have warned for years that climate change could have serious ramifications for our nation’s security and increase the stress on our armed forces. As noted in a recent paper by Brad Johns Consulting LLC, Reducing Data Center Energy Consumption and Carbon Emissions with Modern Tape Storage, “Many companies have decided they must incorporate carbon reductions into their strategies and have announced green initiatives. Streamline work with an integrated cloud platform. This is an Open Access article distributed in accordance with the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) license, which permits others to distribute, remix, adapt and build upon this work, for commercial use, provided the original work is properly cited. Such a “renewable electricity standard” could also stimulate the national as well as local economies by generating $263 billion in new capital investment, $14 billion in income for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners, and $12 billion in new local tax revenues. To avoid the adverse effects and maximise health benefits, holistic approaches to policy making will be required, looking across sectors and considering policies in combination rather than in isolation. We have also used data from our studies that were published after the reviews. Reduce Your Carbon Emissions From Food. Urban areas such as Philadelphia, Chicago, and Indianapolis will likely experience the worst effects. To garner those savings, the nation will need to make some up-front investments—in more efficient appliances, vehicles, heating and cooling systems, and production processes, for example. Average UK diets contain 25% too much saturated fat (largely from red meat and dairy) and less than 70% of desirable levels of fruits and vegetables compared with World Health Organization recommendations.15 Increases in consumption of fruits and vegetables, together with improvements in agricultural technology (eg, reduced tillage) and reductions in red meat consumption could lead to large decreases in diet related diseases such as ischaemic heart disease.16 Replacing half of UK meat and dairy consumption with a combination of fruits, vegetables, and cereals could reduce dietary emissions by 19% and avert roughly 37 000 premature deaths from cardiovascular disease and cancer a year.17 Substituting large amounts of meat and dairy in this way is, however, unlikely. For many companies, reducing greenhouse gas emissions benefits the bottom line because efficient practices reduce operating costs and help increase employee productivity. See: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency has projected the value of climate pollution mitigation efforts from three recent vehicle rulemakings at between $78 billion and $1.2 trillion. We use cookies to improve your experience. Committee on Climate Change. Health effects of mitigation. Power generation. The economic benefits from reducing carbon dioxide emissions can be enormous. If you are unable to import citations, please contact The Union of Concerned Scientists is actively monitoring the coronavirus pandemic and its implications for scientific integrity. Grappling with climate change requires transforming how we power our economy, and no sector requires more fundamental change than transportation, which accounts for the largest share of US global warming pollution. We have not considered other sectors such as shipping and aviation or potentially important policies such as taxation or pricing mechanisms because their effects on health are less well researched. 2019. The Many Benefits of Reducing Carbon Pollution from Existing Power Plants. Emissions from vehicle exhausts are a significant source of air pollutants including: CO2; carbon monoxide; fine dust particles; nitrogen oxides; unburnt hydrocarbons; You should try to limit the emissions that your business vehicles produce as they may: Although it may not be obvious, there’s a direct connection … The energy choices we make today could make or break our ability to fight climate change. UCS estimates that investing in cleaner vehicles and a more efficient transportation system could cut our use of petroleum products by 6 million barrels a day— as much oil as we now import from PEC (the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries). Active travel is likely to bring the greatest health benefits through increased physical activity.11 Estimates for England under an optimistic scenario, in which a quarter of the population cycles regularly and there is widespread use of electric bikes, suggest all-cause mortality could fall by 11%.12 If people in England were as likely to cycle as those in the Netherlands (allowing for distance and hilliness) around 18% would cycle to work and 41% cycle to school.13, In a modelling study for England and Wales based on European best practice for walking, cycling, and reduced car use, there was a 7.6% reduction in ischaemic heart disease plus reduced stroke, dementia, diabetes, depression, and cancers.14 A more ambitious scenario produced a greater than 10% reduction in disease burden from ischaemic heart disease, stroke, and diabetes and large falls in road traffic injuries.14. CO2 emissions can be captured and stored as carbon-negative products, such as sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), while the plant also produces hydrochloric acid, caustic soda and household bleach. Conversely, reducing our emissions through a shift to cleaner forms of energy will not only help slow global warming but will also improve air quality, reducing the cases of asthma and other respiratory illnesses that result from high levels of ozone and airborne particulates. We need to grow a resilient food system from the ground up. However, the sectors interact, and, most notably, future power generation will have implications for housing and transport. Fossil fuel combustion emits both CO 2 and particles less than 2.5 microns in size (‘PM2.5’), which is the major contributor to deaths from air pollution. Lower water levels and higher temperatures in streams and rivers could diminish the capacity of hydropower and cause the collapse of some fisheries. We're arming the new administration with facts, evidence, and science. The US food system should be providing healthy, sustainable food for everyone. Each year, nitrogen runoff from Midwestern farms produces a large "dead zone" in the Gulf of Mexico, damaging fisheries and the people who make their living from them. To be most effective, such legislation should. No purchase necessary. However, estimates of burdens do not necessarily reflect potential gains, and GBD estimates for physical activity are substantially lower than other published estimates, suggesting that the study may underestimate physical activity risks.12, Estimated number of deaths in the UK in 2017 attributable to selected risk factors (data from the Global Burden of Disease 2017 study).19 Ambient air pollution includes PM2.5 and ozone. We need Congress to enact strong legislation without delay. Children, the elderly, and the poor are particularly vulnerable to respiratory, cardiovascular, and heat-related illnesses exacerbated by these conditions. Learn more. The potential air quality impacts from biomass combustion. Higher temperatures and the associated stagnant air masses, interacting with pollution from vehicles and industry, are also expected to increase the frequency and intensity of conditions conducive to smog formation. Because nature does not charge market prices for these services, we tend to greatly undervalue them. The election is over, but the crises are all still here. Addressing global warming could help lessen the harm to ecosystems that now provide us with multiple benefits. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Helping to reduce and offset carbon emissions is only one aspect of how trees help improve our lives. Researchers working on climate change and health can contribute in several ways. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, individuals can use cleaner modes of transportation to get around, from public transit to biking and walking. Under an unchecked-emissions scenario, many farmers could face more frequent heavy rains and flooding in the spring, which delay planting; expanded ranges of agricultural pests; and rising temperatures, which stress plants and livestock and reduce yields. Renewable energy has been one of the bright spots of the U.S. economy during these … Several recent studies show that acting quickly and decisively to address this challenge and shift our economy to clean energy will bring significant benefits to the United States—while also helping us avoid some of the worst consequences of unchecked global warming. Open access fees are paid by the Wellcome Trust, which had no involvement in external peer review, editing, or decision to publish. This will require working closely and sharing knowledge with policy makers, the public, and other stakeholders at all stages of the research process. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that, over the next two decades, U.S. farmers and rural landowners could earn $1.2 billion in new income through such steps. Terms and conditions. In addition, one study found that nearly twice as many people of color as the general population lack access to air conditioning, which could lead to more heat-related illnesses and deaths. Cities have a vital role. The evidence comes largely from studies included in two recent systematic reviews (box 1),45 some of which we conducted. Using energy more efficiently and reducing global warming emissions would help all families—especially low-income families—lower their energy bills. In particular, doctors can recommend individual behaviour changes that promote healthier, more sustainable lifestyles, many of which can be justified through their likely benefits for health alone. According to the Nobel prize–winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), if global temperatures rise more than 3˚–5˚F, up to 30 percent of plant and animal species could become extinct. Reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change 4. Carbon Footprint and Wildlife. Saves money 6. Our analysis focuses on the UK as an example given its legal commitment, though the issues and policy environments are similar in other high income countries. A blog on science, politics, and activism. Gao et al conducted a systematic review looking at the health co-benefits of climate change mitigation to help policy makers prioritise the development and implementation of climate actions. National diet and nutrition survey: results from years 7 and 8 (combined) of the rolling programme (2014/2015 to 2015/2016). The clean energy economy is poised to be the growth industry of the future worldwide, and the United States could be at the vanguard of that trend if we adopt strong renewable energy policies today. World urbanization prospects. IH has conducted research on the relationships between energy systems, built environments, environmental quality, and health. The commission's report also lists other ways to reduce emissions, from improving agricultural productivity to cutting back on plastic packaging, as well as examples of … An important note is that nuclear power and fossil fuel plants that produce electricity rely on vast quantities of water for cooling, while many climate-friendly renewable sources (excluding conventional biofuels) require far less water, leaving more for other purposes and making them better suited to a climate constrained world. For all these reasons, making swift and deep cuts in our emissions is a smart choice for the United States. The project's investors take 19p, with smaller amounts of money being distributed between organisations in… Over the longer term, the robust evidence for ancillary health benefits will enable primary care providers to advocate for ambitious climate policies at local and national level and to enact policies in their own practices that help to mitigate climate change. increased severity of dangerous smog and particulate pollution in many regions [1] intensified precipitation events, hurricanes, and storm surges [2] reduced precipitation and … Poorer populations are more likely to lack health insurance, and in urban areas are disproportionately exposed to ground-level ozone and airborne allergens, increasing the incidence of asthma and other respiratory diseases. Deng et al’s systematic review synthesised the literature on links between climate policies and different co-benefits, examining the research methods used and the areas studied. The use of the Health in All Policies framework, an integrated approach to embed health into cross-sectoral decision making, in recent UK policy guidance on reducing obesity shows how this can work.25, Summary for policy makers on climate change mitigation and health across key sectors. This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions. The US continues to keep intercontinental ballistic missiles on high alert—creating the risk of a mistaken nuclear war in response to a false warning. By addressing global warming, we can also help farmers avoid the most severe consequences of climate change. Methods and literature in this area have grown rapidly over the past 15 years, mainly focusing on reductions in environmental pollutants such as air pollution and changes in health relevant behaviours such as physical activity and diet. This method provides a useful way of comparing the costs of various ways of reducing emissions. Here’s a look at some of the economic benefits the United States could achieve by reducing its emissions: Reduce the Carbon Intensity of Electric Generation. Below are 10 reasons for strong action to promote clean energy and curb climate change. They’re the most dangerous invention the world has ever seen. Public health benefits of strategies to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions: food and agriculture, Modelling the health impact of environmentally sustainable dietary scenarios in the UK, Health effects of adopting low greenhouse gas emission diets in the UK, The importance of health co-benefits in macroeconomic assessments of UK greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies, Meta-analyses of the determinants and outcomes of belief in climate change. AH has studied environmental influences on health, including the potential effects of climate change and the health co-benefits of the low carbon economy. Text STOP to opt out. Other Benefits of Trees: Beyond Carbon Offsets. For example, climate action can help numerous businesses that are vulnerable to a changing climate, from maple sugaring in the Northeast and skiing in Colorado to vital energy and transportation companies that depend on offshore oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico and shipping on the Great Lakes. Improved public health. Each of these effects can significantly raise costs. Finally, studies show that positive messages are more likely to inspire action on climate change, and researchers should bear this in mind when reporting on mitigation studies.24, The evidence suggests several policy actions that would contribute to reducing emissions and improving public health: decarbonising power generation, improving home energy efficiency, promoting the use of cleaner vehicles (primarily for reduced emissions), providing opportunities for walking and cycling (for health benefits), and adopting healthy and sustainable diets, particularly increased consumption of fruits and vegetables (table 1). However, the resulting drops in energy bills from reductions in electricity and fuel use will more than offset the costs of these investments. The concept for the paper arose from discussions between JM, PW, and AH. James Milner and colleagues argue that carefully considered policies to lower carbon emissions can also improve health, and we should use these benefits to push for strong climate action. professor of building physics and the environment, Health benefits of policies to reduce carbon emissions, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/, https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-becomes-first-major-economy-to-pass-net-zero-emissions-law, https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/net-zero-the-uks-contribution-to-stopping-global-warming/, http://ghdx.healthdata.org/gbd-results-tool, https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/790626/2018-provisional-emissions-statistics-report.pdf, https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/uk-housing-fit-for-the-future/, The Windrush Medical Practice, Oxfordshire: Partner or Salaried GP opportunity, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust: Director of School of Oncology, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust: Medical Director, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust: Director of Research & Innovation, HSE: Specialist in Public Health Medicine, Women’s, children’s & adolescents’ health. Direct emissions include smog-forming pollutants (such as nitrogen oxides), other pollutants harmful to human health, and greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide. Researchers can also improve understanding of the role of public behaviour change in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and exploit the benefits of involving citizens in research. Here's how. We also acknowledge support from the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC) funded Centre on Research for Energy Demand Solutions. Carbon Footprint and Human Health. Health should be an explicit and central component of the decision making process. Action to mitigate climate change across many sectors offers an opportunity to improve public health, The benefits to health occur largely through reduced environmental pollution, increased physical activity, and improved diet, The pace and scale of change need to accelerate to meet climate change targets, Researchers need to understand how to use evidence to support action, Clinicians can use the evidence on health benefits to advocate for strong climate policies and guide their practice. By continuing, you accept our use of cookies. Carbon Footprint and the Environment. The bill would also provide monthly cash refunds and annual tax credits to low-income individuals. Humanitarian agencies also warn that the world’s poorest people are already bearing the brunt of climate change, and that poorer countries could lose 50 years of development gains if richer nations do nothing. GBD results tool. Sign up or text "SCIENCE" to 662266. 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