In 2022, air pollution levels in India saw a slight drop, leading to a small decline that could increase the average life expectancy by a year, according to a new study from the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago. Using satellite data for its Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), the study links this slight drop in pollution primarily to weather patterns that brought more rainfall than usual. PM 2.5, dangerous tiny particles in the air, fell from 51.3 micrograms per cubic meter in 2021 to 41.4 micrograms per cubic meter in 2022.
Despite this improvement, the pollution levels across India still exceed the safety guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO), which suggests a maximum of 5 micrograms per cubic meter. The study indicates that nearly half of India’s population lives in areas where air pollution surpasses India’s national air quality standard of 40 micrograms per cubic meter.
Global Impact: Slight Drop in Air Pollution Could Add Years to Life Expectancy
If India were to consistently adhere to the WHO’s air quality guidelines, the average Indian could potentially enjoy an increase of 3.6 years in their life expectancy. The residents of Delhi would experience the impact with an estimated boost of up to 7.8 years in their lifespan. The report further emphasizes that the Indo Gangetic plains, which are home to more than half a billion people, are the areas most affected by pollution.
In this region individuals may face a loss of over five years in life expectancy if pollution levels do not improve. Nevertheless cities such as Purulia, Bankura and Dhanbad have shown notable improvements in air quality indicating that persistent efforts can yield significant benefits.
On a scale reducing air pollution to align with WHO standards could potentially add nearly two years to the average life expectancy worldwide and save approximately 14.9 billion life years. The study highlights the impact of air pollution on health likening its risks to those associated with smoking, alcohol consumption and diseases like HIV/AIDS.
Michael Greenstone the mind behind the AQLI underscores that air pollution is a widespread problem but its most severe effects are felt in certain areas. He notes that tackling this issue calls for bold policy decisions and robust implementation emphasizing the possibility of extending lifespans significantly through better air quality.
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