Trade’s emissions paradox: What it means for developing countries Ebad EbadiEnrique Aldaz-Carroll July 24, 2025 This page in: English

https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/developmenttalk/trade-s-emissions-paradox--what-it-means-for-developing-countrie International trade plays a complex role in shaping environmental outcomes. A new World Bank paper, “Trade’s Emissions Paradox: Cutting Greenhouse Gases, Raising Air Pollution,” prepared for the forthcoming flagship report “Reboot Development: The Economics of a Livable Planet,” brings a new perspective to the debate by revealing an important insight: while global trade has contributed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, it has also been associated with an increase in harmful air pollution in the form of PM2.5 ( tiny airborne particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems).