This could happen if the Chinese and Indian governments fail to meet the needs and expectations of the new property-owning, Internet-surfing, and increasingly well-informed urban middle classes on safety and health concerns, the quality of public services, inflation, and other issues.

FORBES: In China and India, Turbulence and Volatility Are Part Of The Bargain

The author of a Swiss study on climate change and health, Dr Nino Kunzli of the Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine in Basle, said the greatest health benefits would come from policies covering technology, urban planning, traffic speed and safety, and the promotion of walking, cycling and public transport.

BBC: Tackling climate 'helps health now'