

Michael Greenstone
University of Chicago economist focused on the health impacts of air pollution and practical policy solutions; founder of the Air Quality Life Index and leader of the Emissions Market Accelerator.
Top 5 podcasts with Michael Greenstone
Ranked by the Snipd community

46 snips
Nov 22, 2025 • 56min
171. Measuring Pollution on Parallel Earths
Michael Greenstone, an economist from the University of Chicago, focuses on the health impacts of air pollution and practical policy solutions. He discusses the shocking life-expectancy losses linked to pollution, exemplified by China's Huai River policy. Greenstone also explains how using infants simplifies pollution measurement and shares insights on developing pollution markets in India that improved compliance and reduced emissions significantly. His work is driven by a desire to combine rigorous research with real-world impact to shape effective policies.

34 snips
Sep 8, 2022 • 48min
This Is Your Brain on Pollution (Ep. 472 Update)
Michael Greenstone, an economist at the University of Chicago specializing in pollution and climate change, delves into the hidden impacts of air pollution on cognition. He highlights alarming stats linking pollution with decreased mental performance, particularly in adults under 50, while weaving in humorous gameplay anecdotes. The conversation draws attention to the long-term toll of bad air, evidenced by case studies like China's, and urges urgent reforms to combat this silent threat to productivity and well-being.

12 snips
Feb 25, 2026 • 23min
S7 Ep10: Reducing air pollution: Can markets succeed where regulation fails?
Michael Greenstone, economist and director of EPIC who measures the health costs of air pollution. He discusses particulate pollution’s huge toll and why regulation often fails. He explains a randomized market test in Surat where tradable permits cut pollution, raised compliance, and lowered costs. He outlines enforcement, monitoring needs, and how this approach might scale in India and beyond.

Aug 12, 2021 • 46min
472. This Is Your Brain on Pollution
Michael Greenstone, a leading economist from the University of Chicago, sheds light on the staggering global impact of air pollution, linking it to 7 million deaths annually. He discusses how even low levels of particulate matter can impair cognitive function, with revealing studies showing significant declines in memory and decision-making abilities. Greenstone also highlights the economic ramifications of pollution, making a compelling case for stricter regulations as a means to protect public health and enhance productivity.
Jul 5, 2025 • 46min
Summer Playlist 2025 Episode 2 | Michael Greenstone, Director, Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC)
Michael Greenstone, Director of the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago, discusses groundbreaking policies to combat climate change. He shares insights on establishing cap-and-trade systems for air pollution in India, emphasizing the importance of engaging local stakeholders. Greenstone highlights the challenges of translating academic research into real-world solutions while promoting sustainable economic growth. His reflections on historical cooperation offer a thought-provoking lens on today's climate crises and the need for collaborative action.


