The impact of road transport emissions on global health is staggering, with a new study revealing that smart policies addressing this issue could save 1.9 million lives and prevent 1.4 million new cases of children’s asthma by 2040. This translates to averting 310 premature deaths and 230 new children’s asthma cases per day over the next 15 years.
The research, conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), the George Washington University, and the University of Colorado Boulder, analyzed how various policies could improve health outcomes across more than 180 countries and 13,000 urban areas. The study examined the effects of measures such as Euro 6/VI and Euro 7-equivalent emissions standards, accelerated transition to electric vehicles, and fleet renewal acceleration.
In regions where policies are not implemented, the disparities in health impacts are expected to widen significantly. The study projects that premature deaths, years of life lost, and new asthma cases in children from road transport emissions will double in the least developed countries by 2040, while decreasing in more developed nations.
In Europe, existing policies and the adoption of new measures could lead to a 50% reduction in premature deaths and years of life lost from road transport emissions, with a 70% decline in new asthma cases in children between 2023 and 2040. Maintaining and enforcing clean air policies, including CO2 standards for vehicles, Euro 6/VI and Euro 7 standards, is crucial in achieving these health benefits.
The study also highlights the disproportionate impact of road transport-related air pollution on different regions and age groups. Children under 5 years old are projected to account for half of avoidable new asthma cases from NO2 exposure, while adults aged 65 and older represent 70% of global avoidable years of life lost.
Urban populations are particularly vulnerable to road transport-related air pollution, with urban areas in Europe accounting for 70% of new children’s asthma cases despite only housing 40% of the children. Implementing a combination of emission standards, electric vehicle policies, fleet renewal acceleration, and clean electricity generation could save nearly 2 million lives globally by 2040.
This study underscores the urgent need for policymakers to take action to protect public health and improve air quality. By implementing effective policies and regulations, we can mitigate the harmful effects of road transport emissions, save lives, and ensure a healthier future for generations to come.
