The Cost-Effectiveness of Air Pollution Information Provision Programs

Air pollution is one of the primary causes of premature death worldwide. This paper examines the cost-effectiveness of two different air quality information programs that were implemented as part of randomized control trials. In the case of the SMS air quality alerts in Mexico City, we find that the program was not cost-effective in the experimental sample, but it would likely be cost-effective if the program were extended to all of Mexico City. In the case of real-time feedback on wood stove emissions in Valdivia, we find that the program was cost-effective in both the experimental sample and at scale.