Ozone-related Co-benefits of China's Climate mitigation Policy

China has demonstrated great commitment to take more vigorous and effective approaches to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. China's actions to mitigate CO2 emissions are expected to simultaneously reduce co-emitted air pollutants and reduce premature deaths. This study investigates the future changes in international and regional ozone and associated health and economic benefits of stringent climate mitigation policy in China by 2050. Results show that China's stringent mitigation policy positively impacts air quality and public health in China and its downwind transboundary regions, Japan and South Korea. More specifically, approximately 15,800 and 35,550 ozone-related premature deaths will be avoided globally in 2030 and 2050 worldwide, with 78% and 76% happening in China. The avoided ozone-related mortality could save 3 billion USD in 2030 and 10 billion USD in 2050 based on the willingness to pay method.

Automated summary

China's commitment to peak carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality has positive impacts on air quality, public health, and the economy. The stringent climate mitigation policy in China can significantly reduce premature deaths related to ozone and result in substantial economic savings.