Economy

Net-zero policies designed to improve air quality could help generate £7.7 billion in productivity gains for the U.K. by 2050, according to a new analysis.

• The study estimates £7.7 billion in productivity gains for the UK by 2050 from cleaner air policies tied to net-zero.
• Productivity gains are driven by reduced illness, fewer sick days, and improved cognitive function from lower PM2.5 and NO2 levels.
• Air pollution currently costs the UK economy approximately £20 billion annually, according to prior research cited by analysts.