Research shows the life-saving potential of the US adopting net-zero emissions by 2050.

Researchers have revealed that the US has a critical role to play in preventing climate-related deaths globally. If the country enacts meaningful climate legislation and reaches net-zero emissions by 2050, it could save an estimated 7.4 million lives worldwide by the end of this century.

Alongside saving lives, this climate action would also prevent significant financial costs. A net-zero US could help save $3.7 trillion in global adaptation expenses due to rising temperatures. As the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, the US’s decisions will heavily influence the severity of climate impacts, including deadly heat waves, storms, and droughts, especially in vulnerable nations.