Strengthening Co-Benefits of Health, Climate Change and Air Quality Improvement in Energy Investments in Asian Cities

Asia and the Pacific have the highest number of air pollution deaths in the world. The health effects were estimated to cost US$ 1.7 trillion in 2016, equivalent to 10% of the regions. Air pollution creates a massive economic burden for governments causing a loss of productive labor, thereby reducing output and incomes, and increased health care and welfare costs. The energy sector is a major source of pollution and therefore a target for efforts to improve air quality. Through a regional technical assistance, ADB assessed the strengths and improvements needed for air quality management in 4 cities, and recommendations to mainstream air quality in urban development. Air pollution issues should be integrated into policies, and programs of different sectors including energy. The presentation also highlighted ADB’s work on improving policies and regulations, supporting targeted investments backed by green financial mechanisms, and appropriate technologies.