A new study published in the journal Environmental Research by Harvard University in collaboration with the University of Birmingham, the University of Leicester, and University College London finds that more than 8 million people died in 2018 from fossil fuel pollution –a little less than 1 out of 5 deaths globally–significantly higher than previous research suggested.
Regions with the highest concentrations of fossil fuel-related air pollution — including Eastern North America, Europe, and South-East Asia — have the highest rates of mortality, not to mention ongoing pollution-related chronic-illness:
“Our study adds to the mounting evidence that air pollution from ongoing dependence on fossil fuels is detrimental to global health,” said Marais. “We can’t in good conscience continue to rely on fossil fuels, when we know that there are such severe effects on health and viable, cleaner alternatives.”
Fortunately, energy leaders and scientists have laid out blueprints to transform the global energy system to 100% renewable, zero-emission power creating valuable jobs and investment opportunities with reduced cost, illness, and waste. Some of them explain the upside in this new video presentation.
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