The effect of low-carbon city pilot policy on public health: An empirical analysis of adult health in China

Abstract

Growing concern about climate change and the promotion of green and low-carbon development has led to an increase in attention given to the health effects of Low-Carbon City Pilot (LCCP) policy on adults in developing countries. However, limited research has been conducted in this area. This study employs the difference-in-differences approach to analyse the impact of LCCP policy on adult health and its mechanism. Our results indicate that LCCP policy has significantly improved the health of adults by decreasing the likelihood of residents' illness or injury in the last four weeks, reducing the probability of high blood pressure, and decreasing the prevalence of overnutrition. Robustness tests were conducted, and the results remain consistent. Our mechanism analysis reveals that LCCP policy has improved adult health by reducing pollutant emissions, upgrading industrial structures, and enhancing public services. Heterogeneity analysis suggests that urban areas and higher-income households are significantly impacted by the policy. Our study provides valuable insights into the evaluation of LCCP policy, recommending that policymakers consider implementing targeted measures in similar contexts to promote public health and sustainable development.