PNNL

Abstract

Clean air policies in China since 2013 which focused on reducing end-pipe emissions have significantly improved PM2.5 air quality, however, whether they can help further reduce PM2.5 exposures below the WHO guideline (10 µg/m3) is unclear. Climate actions targeted to eliminate fossil-fuel use can consequently reduce air pollutant emissions, hence, how the air quality co- benefits from China’s commitment to the Paris pledges can contribute to the long-term and continuous air quality improvement is of great interest. Here, we connect global climate mitigation pathway with local clean air policies, to investigate how the climate and air quality policies work together to formulate a long-term air quality improvement pathway for China. We find that, China could achieve both carbon peak and current PM2.5 air quality standard (35 µg/m3) by 2030 through completing NDC pledges and current air pollution control polices. However, more ambitious climate mitigation—cutting CO2 emissions by 6-10 Gt consistent with a global 1.5?-pathway— are necessary to ensure China to reduce PM2.5 exposure below 10 µg/m3 by 2050 for a majority of its population. Our results highlight the critical role of climate policy and low-carbon energy for China to reduce air pollution exposure and protect public health.