Reduced PM2.5 emissions from electric vehicles (EVs) have significant positive impacts on public health mainly by lowering exposure to harmful fine particulate matter that contributes to various diseases.
Mechanism of PM2.5 Reduction from EVs
- EVs eliminate exhaust emissions of PM2.5 and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are toxic pollutants from combustion engines.
- Regenerative braking in EVs reduces particulate emissions from brake wear compared to traditional vehicles, further decreasing PM2.5 levels.
- Even though EVs tend to be heavier than conventional cars, studies show switching from petrol or diesel vehicles to EVs reduces PM2.5 emissions across urban, rural, and highway settings.
Impact on Public Health
- Reduced PM2.5 concentrations from EV adoption correlate with fewer premature deaths; for example, one study estimated 77 premature deaths avoided annually due to PM2.5 reductions in a metropolitan area after EV introduction.
- Another study found that a full switch to EVs could reduce harmful PM2.5 (and NO2) concentrations by at least 30%, translating into substantial health benefits through improved air quality.
- Lower PM2.5 exposures reduce risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as premature mortality, since PM2.5 is linked to lung inflammation, heart attacks, strokes, and other health problems.
Additional Benefits
- EVs also reduce emissions of other harmful pollutants such as CO and hydrocarbons by eliminating combustion, further improving air quality and health outcomes.
- The decrease in urban heat island effect due to EVs can indirectly influence pollutant formation and reduce ground-level ozone, complementing PM2.5 improvements.
In summary, the reduction in PM2.5 emissions attributed to electric vehicles leads to measurable public health improvements, including fewer premature deaths and lower incidence of pollution-related diseases, by markedly improving air quality compared to conventional combustion-engine vehicles.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-reduced-pm2-5-emissions-from-evs-impact-public-health/
