Reducing air pollution in Africa offers huge economic and health benefits, study finds
A recent study by environmental scientists Chris Malley, Kevin Hicks, and Caroline Sawe highlights that African countries could save billions of dollars by reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The study draws on data showing nearly one million premature deaths in sub-Saharan Africa in 2023 due to air pollution, which is the continent's second leading health risk after malnutrition. The main pollution sources include household cooking fuels, industry, transport, agriculture, and waste management. Implementing 25 proven solutions across key sectors could lower pollution and emissions, reduce health costs, and boost productivity.
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African countries could save billions of dollars by reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new study by environmental scientists Chris Malley, Kevin Hicks, and Caroline Sawe.
The study references the “State of Global Air 2025” report, which analyzed air quality and health impacts worldwide in 2023. It found that nearly one million people died prematurely in sub-Saharan Africa due to air pollution, making it the continent’s second largest public health risk after malnutrition. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
Most human-caused air pollution in sub-Saharan Africa comes from household use of wood, charcoal, and other fuels for cooking. Other significant sources include industry, electricity production, transport, agriculture, and waste management. These sources also contribute heavily to greenhouse gas emissions driving climate change.
The study titled “Hidden assets: the economic and health case for climate and clean air action” evaluates 25 proven solutions to reduce both air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. These solutions span key economic sectors such as energy, fossil fuel-based activities, industry, transport, agriculture, food systems, cooking, and heating.
Implementing these measures could save billions through lower health care costs, fewer sick days, and increased productivity, while also contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.