Abstract
We investigate the effects of driving restrictions on air pollution and mortality by focusing on the low emission zone in Madrid, known as Madrid Central. We estimate the spatially disaggregated effects of the policy both inside the restricted area and in neighboring areas. The results indicate that traffic-related air pollution and respiratory-related mortality decreased within the low emission zone. However, we find unintended spatial spillovers of air pollution into neighboring areas, leading to lower city-wide air quality and higher mortality rates among the elderly. We also show that the policy exacerbated disparities in pollution exposure between high- and low-income neighborhoods, emphasizing the importance of considering environmental justice aspects of driving restrictions.
The seminar will be held in room 1249 (12th floor) at Eilert Sundts Hus. The address is Moltke Moes vei 31.