Report: Southeast Asia Faces $600 Billion Burden from Air Pollution by 2050

3 days ago7 min read

A comprehensive study published in Environment International projects that air pollution will cost Southeast Asia's economies up to US$600 billion and contribute to a nearly 10 percent increase in premature deaths by 2050 if current policies remain unchanged. The research, analyzing climate scenarios across Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines, identifies a direct correlation between fossil fuel dependence, agricultural burning, and deteriorating public health.This economic burden manifests through overwhelmed healthcare systems, significant productivity losses, and rising poverty due to medical expenses. The findings underscore an urgent need for policy interventions, including a transition to renewable energy, adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, and development of efficient public transport networks. Scientists emphasize that proactive measures could mitigate these projected losses, positioning environmental policy not as a cost but as a critical investment in regional stability and public health.

#air pollution

#Southeast Asia

#economic cost

#premature deaths

#climate change

#environmental policy

#featured

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