A new study published by Harvard and Syracuse researchers estimates that the Obama Administration’s plan to reduce carbon dioxide will save the lives of 3,500 Americans each year. Carbon dioxide emissions are considered a major cause of lung disease and heart attacks — and the proposed cuts in emissions in the new power plant rules would mitigate this risk, according to the study.
The chief objective of the new EPA power plant standards, which are not yet in effect, is to slow global warming by reducing carbon emissions. The direct and immediate benefits to the health of some individuals is a fortunate side effect. The study findings appeal not only to those whose health problems may be mitigated by the new rules, but to healthcare cost watchers who see efficiency benefits as a result.