New Delhi, Feb 21: Ambitious global climate action could save up to 1.32 million lives every year by 2040 by significantly improving air quality, according to a new study led by Cardiff University.
The findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, highlight the urgent need for international cooperation, particularly to support developing nations grappling with cross-border pollution.
The researchers analysed pollution exchanges across 168 countries, examining how emissions in one nation affect air quality and public health in others. The study found that climate mitigation decisions taken by wealthy countries have substantial consequences for populations in the Global South.
“Ambitious climate action could save up to 1.32 million lives annually by 2040 through improved air quality,” the study said.
Lead author Omar Nawaz said climate policies must be designed to address shifting patterns of transboundary pollution and widening inequalities. “Climate policies must adapt to evolving transboundary pollution inequalities and distinct socioeconomic trends,” Nawaz said.
Using advanced atmospheric modelling and data from NASA, the team simulated multiple emissions scenarios to assess potential health outcomes. The analysis showed that Asia could see significant public health gains under strong emissions reduction pathways, while many African nations may depend heavily on emissions cuts undertaken elsewhere to achieve cleaner air.
The study underscores the need for coordinated global climate strategies that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also address disparities between the Global North and South, the researchers said.
They emphasised that without strengthened international collaboration, developing countries will continue to bear a disproportionate burden of pollution-related health impacts despite contributing less historically to global emissions.
