Equitable energy transitions for a healthy future: combating air pollution and climate change

Abstract

Yifang Zhu and colleagues argue that equitable energy transitions are critical to improving public health and reducing health inequalities Energy systems—the entire network of processes, technologies, and infrastructure involved in producing, converting, distributing, and consuming energy—are the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions. The emissions come mainly from the combustion of fossil fuels, which also contribute to ambient air pollution.1 Alarmingly, nearly the entire global population (99% of 8.2 billion) resides in areas that fail to meet the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines, with low and middle income countries experiencing the highest levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).2 Adding to this concern, WHO estimates that 3.6 billion people live in areas highly susceptible to climate change.3 Both air pollution and climate change pose threats to human health that can be addressed through coordinated and synergistic measures (fig 1). Fig 1 The nexus of equitable energy transitions, air quality, climate change, and public healthEnergy transitions, such as phasing out fossil fuels and adopting renewable energy sources (eg, solar, wind, hydro, wave, tidal, and geothermal), are effective strategies to reduce air pollution and improve health. These transitions also contribute to the United Nations’ goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Energy transitions, however, need to be equitable, which means that everyone should have access to energy that is affordable, safe, sustainable, and capable of supporting a decent lifestyle. Equitable energy transitions should also empower individuals to participate in, and lead, energy decision making processes with the authority to enact change.4 Action is urgent as “health is at the mercy of fossil fuels”5 Climate change is arguably the greatest global health threat of the 21st century. Its health effects are extensive, including direct exposure to extreme weather events, disruption of food and healthcare systems, and …