A Literature Review of the Effects of Energy on Pollution and Health

Abstract

This paper reviews recent economic studies that estimate the impacts of energy accidents and energy-related policies and regulations on pollution and health. Using difference-in-differences and regression discontinuity designs, most papers show that energy accidents and consumption significantly increased pollution and had adverse health effects. However, the enforcement of clean energy policies and strict regulations have improved air quality and mitigated the negative effects on health. Hence, future research should focus more on the health effects of clean energy in developing countries.