How Electric Vehicles Can Save Lives and Generate $1.2 Trillion in Health Benefits
A recent report from the American Lung Association reveals how zero-emission electric vehicles can save lives and create significant health benefits, projecting over $1.2 trillion in health benefits for the United States by 2050.
According to the American Lung Association, 8.8 million premature deaths occur annually due to air pollution. The organization's new report indicates that zero-emission vehicles will generate over $1.2 trillion in health benefits for the United States by 2050.
Inhaling polluted air can lead to a range of health issues, from coughing to exacerbation of existing conditions. Fine particulate matter emitted by internal combustion engine vehicles can enter the bloodstream, damaging the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. For pregnant women, air pollution increases the risk of complications and low birth weight.
Electric vehicles alleviate the impact of air pollution on children. In busy cities or poorly ventilated homes, air pollution can be fatal, especially for children, leading to lifelong health problems. Children exposed to air pollution are likely to experience respiratory symptoms, impaired lung function, and worsened asthma.
New research also suggests that air pollution is a contributing factor to attention-related disorders. Pollutants attack the immune system, making children more susceptible to diseases like pneumonia.
Children with these health issues may need to take time off from school, affecting their learning and possibly requiring parents to take time off work.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, electric vehicles produce 1,783 kilograms of carbon emissions, while gasoline-powered vehicles emit 5,186 kilograms.The report suggests significant improvements in children's health if the following conditions are met:
- By 2035, all new car buyers will opt for zero-emission options.
- By 2040, drivers will only purchase zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles, such as tractor-trailers.
- By 2035, the national grid will transition to clean and renewable energy.
Will Barrett, Senior Director of Clean Air Advocacy at the American Lung Association and author of the report, said, "Today, air pollution and climate change pose risks to children." "The impacts of climate change are exacerbating, which only increases the risks American children face as they grow."
In addition to electric vehicles, electric buses also support communities and reduce air pollution. In Europe, as many as 87 million regular bus users opt for electric buses, with over 42% of city buses being zero-emission, including hydrogen, according to a report by CME Solutions, showing a 53% growth in electric bus registrations in 2023.
