Does Spending on Urban Air Quality Improvement Lead to Cost Efficiency and Health Benefits? A Computational Meta-Analysis Approach

Air pollution, driven by particulate matter (PM10) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), fuels cancer, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases. The European Union mandates Air Quality Plans (AQPs) to curb emissions. This critical meta-analysis evaluates two MAPLIA project studies, integrating air quality modeling, health impacts, and cost-efficiency in Grande Porto, Portugal. Using large language models (ChatGPT and Grok), we synthesize findings and compare MAPLIA with global approaches, including AI-driven models, IoT monitoring, and fossil fuel vehicle bans. MAPLIA’s measures are estimated to reduce PM10 by 10–20% over 10 years, averting 700–1000 Disability- Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) and yielding projected savings of €60–110 million over the same period, including healthcare, environmental, and socioeconomic benefits. Stricter fossil fuel regulations, as in Lisbon and London, enhance savings, while urban planning improves livability. Holistic AQPs integrating realtime data, environmental justice, and EU Green Deal synergies are essential for sustainable urban health.