A recent study published in BMJ found that fossil fuels are responsible for more deaths worldwide than previously thought, highlighting the significant health benefits of transitioning to clean energy.
In short:
- Of the 8.34 million deaths estimated to be caused by air pollution each year, 61% (5.1 million) are fossil fuel-related.
- Because fossil fuel-related air pollution is linked to a wide range of diseases (including cardiovascular, respiratory, and reproductive issues), transitioning away from fossil fuels would be an effective way to improve health and save lives.
- The authors note that a total phase-out of fossil fuels could be possible by 2050 if there’s a global shift to renewable energy.
Key quote:
“Improved air quality would reduce the burden of several major diseases leading to healthier and longer lives, fewer patients requiring admission to hospital and other treatments, and decreasing the burden on health systems worldwide.”
- Heli Lehtomäki, via BMJ’s accompanying editorial
Why this matters:
The results of this study underscore that fossil fuel-related air pollution is a major, but preventable health threat. As COP28 came to a close last week, 200 countries agreed to a deal that acknowledged fossil fuels as the top climate concern but fell short of committing to phase them out. The study authors emphasize the need to acknowledge the human health impacts of fossil fuels as a way to push for concrete action to eliminate them.
Related EHN coverage:
- ER visits for heart problems plummeted after Pittsburgh coal processor shut down
- Oil and gas production responsible for $77 billion in annual US health damages: Study
Lelieveld, Jos et al. for BMJ vol. 383. Nov. 29, 2023, and Heli Lehtomäki’s accompanying editorial.
