Environmental Studies and Forestry

Atmospheric health burden across the century and the accelerating impact of temperature compared to pollution

A. Pozzer, B. Steffens, et al.

This groundbreaking study reveals alarming projections for future mortality rates due to non-optimal temperature and air pollution, potentially reaching 30 million deaths annually by the century's end. With temperature-related mortality outpacing pollution figures significantly, urgent action through stronger climate policies is essential. Research conducted by Andrea Pozzer, Brendan Steffens, Yiannis Proestos, Jean Sciare, Dimitris Akritidis, Sourangsu Chowdhury, Katrin Burkart, and Sara Bacer.

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Abstract

This study projects future changes in mortality attributable to long-term exposure to non-optimal temperature and air pollution. Under a realistic scenario, end-of-century mortality could quadruple, reaching 30 million deaths annually. While pollution-related mortality increases fivefold, temperature-related mortality increases sevenfold, becoming a more significant risk factor than pollution for at least 20% of the global population. Stronger climate policies are urgently needed to prevent further loss of life.

Publisher

Nature Communications

Published On

Oct 30, 2024

Authors

Andrea Pozzer, Brendan Steffens, Yiannis Proestos, Jean Sciare, Dimitris Akritidis, Sourangsu Chowdhury, Katrin Burkart, Sara Bacer

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