By Mark Garrison

The VW diesel emissions scandal may be responsible for more than 40,000 tons of pollution in America, according to an analysis by the Guardian. That’s the worst-case number for emissions of nitrogen oxides, pollutants linked to environmental and health damage. The problem could be much bigger abroad, including Europe, where diesel passenger cars are far more popular than in the U.S. University of Chicago’s Michael Greenstone says a back of the envelope estimate of total health costs in the U.S. due to the false emissions expectations could be around 80 million per year.

“It’s an important impact on a global basis,” said Patrick Kinney, environmental health sciences professor at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University. “And just magnify it if this extends beyond VW.”

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Areas of Focus: Energy Markets
Definition
Energy Markets
Well-functioning markets are essential for providing access to reliable, affordable energy. EPIC research is uncovering the policies, prices and information needed to help energy markets work efficiently.
Transportation
Definition
Transportation
Mobility is central to economic activity. Yet, a lack of fuel diversity and continued demand growth have made the transportation industry a major contributor to global pollution and carbon emissions....
Environment
Definition
Environment
Producing and using energy damages people’s health and the environment. EPIC research is quantifying the social costs of energy choices and uncovering policies that help protect health while facilitating growth.
Air Pollution
Definition
Air Pollution
Air pollution from fossil fuel combustion poses a grave threat to human health worldwide. EPIC research is using real-world data to calculate the effects of air pollution on human health...
Definition
Air Pollution
Definition
Air Pollution
Air pollution from fossil fuel combustion poses a grave threat to human health worldwide. EPIC research is using real-world data to calculate the effects of air pollution on human health...
Transportation
Definition
Transportation
Mobility is central to economic activity. Yet, a lack of fuel diversity and continued demand growth have made the transportation industry a major contributor to global pollution and carbon emissions....