Pollution hurts India’s economy more than tariffs, says economist Gita Gopinath
Air pollution is causing deeper and more lasting damage to India’s economy than trade barriers, according to IMF economist Gita Gopinath. She highlights that poor air quality reduces worker productivity, increases healthcare costs, and shortens life expectancy, all of which directly impact economic growth. Unlike tariffs, which mainly affect trade flows, pollution silently weakens human capital and places a long-term burden on public health systems. Gopinath stresses that environmental damage should be treated as a core economic issue rather than just an ecological concern. Addressing pollution can improve labour efficiency, reduce medical expenses, and enhance overall quality of life. She also points out that investing in cleaner technologies and sustainable policies can generate economic benefits while protecting public health. The message is clear: controlling pollution is not a luxury for India but an economic necessity that could strengthen growth and resilience in the long run.
The Key points
- Air pollution has a greater economic impact than trade tariffs.
- Poor air quality reduces workforce productivity significantly.
- Health-related costs from pollution strain public finances.
- Pollution lowers life expectancy and human capital value.
- Economic losses from pollution are long-term and cumulative.
- Trade tariffs affect markets, pollution affects people directly.
- Cleaner environments support stronger economic growth.
- Pollution control is an economic reform, not just environmental.
- Investment in clean technology brings health and growth benefits.
- Tackling pollution can improve India’s global competitiveness.
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