Recessions Lead to Lower Mortality, But the Cost Is High

• Research shows economic downturns extend people's lives, with a 0.5% drop in mortality for every 1% rise in unemployment • The effects were largest for adults over 64 and those without a college degree, giving 55-year-olds an extra year of life • This is likely due to reduced air pollution from less driving, industrial activity, and energy use during recessions • The findings suggest tradeoffs between economic activity and mortality, fueling the "degrowth" movement • Rather than shrinking the economy, the solution is better growth with regulation and innovation to create jobs without environmental harm