Climate Change, Tropospheric Ozone and Particulate Matter, and Health Impacts

Because the state of the atmosphere determines the development, transport, dispersion, and deposition of air pollutants, there is concern that climate change could affect morbidity and mortality associated with elevated concentrations of these gases and fine particles. This report reviews studies projecting the impacts of climate change on air quality and studies projecting the impacts of these changes on morbidity and mortality. Specific attention is given to cities on the East Coast of the United States, and California. The primary recommendation is reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Adaptation measures  are not considered effective as risk management strategies for poor air quality.

Publication Date: July 10, 2008

Authors or Affiliated Users:

• Kristie L. Ebi
• Glenn McGregor

Related Organizations:

• Environmental Health Perspectives

Sectors:

• Public health

Resource Category:

• Assessments

Resource Types:

• Assessment

States Affected:

• California
• New York

Impacts:

• Air quality
• Air temperature

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