Growth, Pollution, and Life Expectancy: China from 1991–2012

Citation:

Ebenstein A, Fan M, Greenstone M, He G, Yin P, Zhou M. Growth, Pollution, and Life Expectancy: China from 1991–2012. American Economic Review Papers and Proceedings. 2015;105 (5) :226-231.
growth_health_aerpap.pdf474 KB

Abstract:

This paper examines the relationship between income, pollution, and mortality in China from 1991-2012. Using first-difference models, we document a robust positive association between city-level GDP and life expectancy. We also find a negative association between city-level particulate air pollution exposure and life expectancy that is driven by elevated cardiorespiratory mortality rates. The results suggest that while China's unprecedented economic growth over the last two decades is associated with health improvements, pollution has served as a countervailing force.

Last updated on 06/03/2015