Wildfire smoke could cause 1.4 million global deaths annually by 2100 if emissions aren't curbed.
Wildfire smoke could cause 1.4 million global deaths annually by 2100 if emissions aren't curbed.
Why it matters
- Wildfire smoke is becoming a significant global health threat.
- If emissions aren't reduced, the health and economic impacts could be severe.
By the numbers
- Global deaths by 2100: 1.4 million annually.
- US deaths by 2050: 70,000 annually.
- Economic damages in the US by 2050: $608 billion annually.
The big picture
- Wildfire smoke is more toxic than other air pollution and can cause serious health issues.
- Africa is expected to be disproportionately affected.
- Reducing emissions and better forest management could mitigate some impacts.
What they're saying
- Some commenters are skeptical or pessimistic about the projections.
- Others emphasize the financial costs as a potential driver for change.
- There’s a discussion on the balance of ecosystems and the need for emissions reduction.
Caveats
- Projections are based on current trends and could change with emissions reductions or adaptation measures.
- Short-term adaptation strategies could mitigate some impacts in the next few decades.