Brookings Institution researchers are linking improved air quality to increased economic productivity, citing a recent study which found that the productivity of agricultural workers dropped as ozone levels rose and which suggested strengthening ozone standards for further benefits. Michael Greenstone and Adam Looney of Brookings’ Hamilton Project in a May 6 blog post say that while the health effects of air pollution are well-documented, “what is less obvious, however, is the impact pollution has on employment and productivity.” The authors cite a list of adverse health effects from air pollu
December 30, 2025