Local urban climate zones, environmental pollution, disease prevalence and mortality: Evidence from Barcelona

Abstract

In recent decades, environmental pollution has reached alarming levels due to significant population growth and the increase in transport and industrial activities. Numerous studies indicate that elevated pollutant levels correlate with heightened mortality rates and an increased risk of disease, leading to substantial health expenditures that many governments and citizens cannot afford. Therefore, it is essential to implement measures that mitigate these effects and improve the standard of living of the population. This research analyzes the relationship between urban morphological conditions (Urban Index (UI) and Proportion Vegetation (PV), environmental pollutants (Aerosols, Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Carbon Monoxide (CO)) and the risk of developing diseases (breast, prostate, lung, stomach, colorectal cancer, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dementia, suicides) in the Local Climate Zones (LCZ) of the city of Barcelona, using Sentinel 5P and Landsat 8 satellite images. The results reveal that dense LCZs have less cover of vegetation, greater levels of contaminants, and a higher risk of disease and death. The reduced quantity of green space in these LCZs inhibits the dispersion of pollutants, associated with increased health issues. This leads to more health problems. This study provides critical insights into the interconnections among pollutants, vegetation, LCZs, and health. This information can help come up with city planning ideas that make life better for people who live there.