In 2023, Energy Foundation China supported the California-China Climate Institute to carry out a study on the public health dimensions of air quality and climate change. The results were released in a report titled “The Public Health Dimensions of Air Quality and Climate Change: Highlights of Policy and Technological Options from California and China.”

California has demonstrated that public health co-benefits can serve as measurable, quantitative goals within climate and air quality policies. California has also made significant progress in incorporating environmental justice considerations into its work. On the other hand, China has excelled at developing highly sophisticated air quality monitoring tools and a comprehensive climate policy framework, and should further integrate public health indicators in its policies.

The report highlights that both California and China can achieve great health co-benefits through continued greenhouse gas emissions reduction and improved air quality in their jurisdictions. By synergistically addressing the issues of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, policymakers can successfully enhance public health outcomes.