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Topic : State of Global Air Report 2024
GS-3 Mains :Environment
Revision Notes
Air Pollution – A Global Threat
- 8.1 million deaths globally attributed to air pollution in 2021 (Source: State of Global Air Report 2024).
- PM2.5 pollution responsible for over 90% of these deaths (7.8 million).
- Air pollution: Second leading risk factor for death globally, after high blood pressure.
- 99% of the world’s population breathes unhealthy levels of PM2.5.
India’s Struggles
- India & China: Account for over half (54%) of global air pollution deaths (2.3 & 2.1 million respectively).
- Air pollution: Leading risk factor for death among children under 5 in India (after malnutrition).
- High ozone exposure: Another concern for Indians, linked to respiratory problems.
Understanding Air Pollution
- Air pollution occurs when harmful substances like particles, gases, or matter contaminate the air.
- Common pollutants include PM2.5, NO2, SO2, O3, CO, VOCs, and Lead.
- Sources: Natural (volcanoes, wildfires) and human activities (industry, transport, agriculture).
- Health concerns: Respiratory issues, heart problems, reduced lung function.
- Environmental impacts: Ecosystem damage, biodiversity loss, water pollution, climate change, crop damage.
- Economic burden: Increased healthcare costs due to pollution-related illnesses.
Government Initiatives in India
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) (2019): Aims to reduce air pollution in targeted cities and regions. Strategies include improved monitoring, stricter emission standards, and public awareness.
- Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) Emission Standards (2020): Mandate cleaner fuel and advanced emission control technologies for vehicles nationwide.
- Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY): Promotes clean cooking fuel (LPG) to replace polluting biomass methods.
- FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) Scheme: Offers incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles to reduce emissions.
- Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA): Promotes sustainable building practices and energy-efficient technologies.
- Waste Management Programs: Initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan address solid waste and promote cleaner disposal methods, reducing air pollution from waste burning.
- Commission for Air Quality Management (NCR & Adjoining Areas): Improves coordination, research, and problem-solving related to air quality in the National Capital Region.
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