Strategies To Combat Air Pollution And Breathe Easier

Air pollution is the leading environmental cause of illness and premature death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, it is responsible for an estimated 4.2 million deaths annually, with indoor air pollution increasing this number by 2.9 to 4.3 million. As such, it is imperative to address this issue and implement measures to improve air quality. This can be achieved through various interventions, such as phasing out the use of coal and other fossil fuels for power generation, transitioning to electric vehicles, and preventing crop burning. These actions not only improve health by reducing particulate matter but also contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, thus tackling climate change.

Phase out coal and other fossil fuels for power generation

Phasing out coal and other fossil fuels for power generation is crucial to mitigate air pollution and combat climate change. Here are some detailed actions and strategies to achieve this goal:

Reduce Carbon Intensity of Power Supply

The carbon intensity of the power supply needs to be significantly reduced to meet the targets set by the Paris Climate Agreement. By 2030, the carbon intensity should decrease by about 85%, and by 2050, it should reach net-zero emissions. This means that countries must work towards rapidly phasing out coal and fossil gas-fired power plants and replacing them with clean, zero-carbon energy sources.

Accelerate the Decline of Coal

Coal is the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel and contributes to a large share of carbon dioxide emissions from the power sector. To align with the Paris Agreement, the decline in coal use should accelerate sevenfold by 2030, aiming for a complete phase-out by 2050. This will require strong commitments and robust strategies from countries, including the largest consumers of coal, such as China, India, and the United States.

Transition to Clean Energy Sources

The transition to clean and renewable energy sources is essential to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. This includes investing in wind, solar, hydropower, and other sustainable energy sources. For example, Germany is using reverse auctions to compensate coal-fired power plants that shut down ahead of schedule, and many countries are pledging to phase out coal, joining initiatives like the Powering Past Coal Alliance.

Address Unabated Fossil Gas

Unabated fossil gas, or fossil gas without carbon capture and storage technologies, needs to be reduced significantly. By 2030, it should contribute to only 5-7% of total power generation globally, with a further decline to 1% by 2040, and a complete phase-out by 2050. This will require accelerating the transition to renewables and ensuring that new fossil gas plants do not lock in carbon emissions for decades.

Support Workers in Fossil Fuel Industries

As renewable energy technologies replace fossil fuels, many workers in the coal and gas industries may lose their jobs. It is essential to provide support and retraining initiatives to help these workers transition to new employment opportunities, ensuring a just and equitable energy transition. This can be achieved through public and private initiatives, such as funding from companies and governments to provide training and job placement services.

Reduce Fossil Fuel Subsidies

Phasing out fossil fuel subsidies is crucial to addressing the climate crisis and accelerating the transition to clean energy sources. While this must be done carefully to avoid protests and negative economic impacts, removing these subsidies will substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create jobs in the renewable energy sector.

By implementing these strategies and accelerating the phase-out of coal and other fossil fuels for power generation, we can effectively reduce air pollution, improve public health, and mitigate the worst effects of climate change.

Replace diesel and gasoline vehicles with electric vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) are a critical component of the global strategy to combat climate change. They offer a more sustainable means of transportation, reducing air pollution and promoting cleaner environments. Here are several reasons why replacing diesel and gasoline vehicles with electric vehicles is a significant step towards tackling air pollution:

Zero Exhaust Emissions

EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, which means there are no harmful gases released from the exhaust. This is in stark contrast to diesel and gasoline vehicles, which emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM2.5). NOx is a significant contributor to air pollution and has detrimental effects on human respiratory health. By eliminating tailpipe emissions, EVs play a direct role in reducing air pollution and improving air quality, especially in urban areas.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Electric vehicles are designed to be more energy-efficient than their conventional counterparts. EVs utilize approximately 87-91% of the energy from the battery and regenerative braking for propulsion. In comparison, gasoline vehicles only convert about 16-25% of the energy from gasoline into movement. This higher energy efficiency in EVs translates to lower fuel consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Reduced Noise Pollution

Electric motors in EVs are much quieter than internal combustion engines (ICEs) found in traditional diesel and gasoline vehicles. This results in significantly reduced noise pollution, creating a more peaceful and pleasant environment, particularly in urban settings.

Lower Oil Dependency

The widespread adoption of EVs helps reduce the environmental impact of oil production and transportation. By decreasing our reliance on traditional energy sources, we can mitigate the risk of oil spills and improve energy security and resilience.

Grid Integration and Load Balancing

Smart charging infrastructure enables EVs to communicate intelligently with the electric grid. This technology allows EVs to charge during off-peak hours when energy demand and prices are lower. Consequently, this efficient use of renewable energy sources improves grid balancing and reduces system stress during peak demand periods.

Health Benefits

Reducing air pollution through the use of EVs has tangible health benefits. Lower levels of air pollution lead to fewer respiratory and heart diseases, as well as a decrease in premature deaths and hospitalizations. This not only improves the quality of life for individuals but also reduces the economic burden on healthcare systems.

In conclusion, replacing diesel and gasoline vehicles with electric vehicles is a crucial step towards mitigating air pollution. EVs offer a more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. By reducing harmful emissions, noise pollution, and oil dependency, EVs play a pivotal role in improving air quality and safeguarding the health of individuals and the planet.

Eliminate uncontrolled diesel emissions

Diesel engines emit a variety of pollutants that are harmful to human health and the environment. These emissions can be reduced through the use of diesel emission systems (DES) and other technologies. Here are some ways to eliminate uncontrolled diesel emissions:

Diesel Emission Systems (DES)

The Diesel Emission System is a set of components that work together to reduce harmful pollutants emitted by diesel engines. The standard DES consists of separate components such as diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC), diesel particulate filters (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. Each component plays a specific role in reducing emissions from exhaust gases. The DOC uses a catalytic process to convert carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HCs) into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapour (H2O). The DPF captures and stores soot particulate matter (PM) from the exhaust stream, achieving an 85-100% reduction rate. The SCR system then injects diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), typically a urea-based solution, to eliminate nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

One Box Emission Control System

The One Box system is an alternative to the standard DES, designed to streamline emissions control in heavy-duty trucks. It integrates multiple components, including DOCs, DPFs, and SCR systems, into a single, compact unit. This system is engineered for compatibility with specific truck models, offering seamless integration and enhanced reliability. However, the One Box design does not allow for the removal and cleaning of DOCs and SCRs, as they are built-in for space efficiency.

Advanced Active Emissions Control Technologies

Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and NOx storage catalysts (NSC) technologies have been developed to address the challenge of reducing NOx emissions. The SCR method is the predominant choice for vehicles with large engines, despite requiring customers to refill the urea water solution. The NSC method, on the other hand, is preferred for small vehicles due to its advantages of avoiding additional UWS and supply hardware.

Regulatory Initiatives and Policy Reforms

Reducing uncontrolled diesel emissions may require policy reforms and interventions. For example, implementing and enforcing stricter emission standards for diesel engines can drive the adoption of more efficient and less polluting technologies. Additionally, providing incentives and guidelines for reducing diesel emissions from vehicles, industries, and cities can help tackle this issue.

Alternative Energy Sources and Electric Vehicles

Transitioning from diesel to electric vehicles is an effective way to reduce uncontrolled diesel emissions. Electric vehicles produce significantly less pollution and are a cleaner alternative for transportation. Promoting the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, can also help reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

By implementing a combination of these strategies, we can work towards eliminating uncontrolled diesel emissions and improving air quality, protecting human health, and mitigating climate change.

Prevent crop burning

Preventing crop burning is a multifaceted issue that requires a combination of technological, management, and policy interventions. Here are some strategies to address this issue:

Happy Seeder Machine

Mounted on a tractor, this machine cuts and lifts straw, sows wheat and rice into the soil, and deposits the straw over the sown area instead of burning it. This method helps to retain the straw and prevent air pollution caused by crop burning.

Biomass Briquettes

Biomass briquettes are compressed blocks made from leftover straw and paddy residue. They serve as an alternative to coal, reducing the carbon footprint in thermal power plants. This approach not only helps to manage crop residue sustainably but also contributes to a significant reduction in carbon emissions.

Packaging and Fodder

Leftover paddy can be collected and converted into valuable products such as paper, cattle fodder, animal bedding, mushroom compost, agri-fiber boards, and packaging material. This approach not only reduces waste but also creates additional revenue streams for farmers and cottage industries.

Compost and Fertilizer

The Indian Agriculture Research Institute has introduced a bio-enzyme that, when sprayed on paddy residue, accelerates its decomposition into manure within 20-25 days. This method not only prevents crop burning but also improves soil fertility by recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Don't Burn, Retain

Retaining crop stubble offers multiple benefits, including minimizing erosion risks, promoting nutrient recycling and soil microbial biomass, improving water use efficiency and soil health, and retaining moisture in the soil, which reduces evaporation and enhances autumn rainfall.

Government Initiatives: The Gauthan Model

The Gauthan model is a unique initiative fostering sustainable rural development in Chhattisgarh, India. These multi-activity centers, established on five-acre plots held in common by each village, integrate agriculture, livestock management, skill development, and entrepreneurship. They provide a platform for collecting and converting crop stubble and residue into organic fertilizer while also generating livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Biogas Plants

Biogas plants have been promoted by the Indian government as a progressive step to curb crop burning and prevent pollution. These plants generate biogas through the anaerobic biodegradation of crop residue, municipal solid waste, and agricultural waste. The biogas can be used for electricity generation, cooking, and lighting, providing a renewable energy source while also reducing air pollution.

National Schemes and Policies

The Indian government has directed the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) to mix crop residue pellets with coal for power generation, offering farmers a monetary return for their crop residue. Additionally, schemes like the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yogna (RKVY) provide training and support to farmers in agro-waste bio-conversion and bio-compost production, helping them gain economic advantages while also addressing the issue of crop burning.

Sustainable Management Practices

Composting, biochar production, and mechanization are effective sustainable techniques to manage crop residue while retaining nutrients in the soil. Composting, in particular, has been practiced for a long time in India and can be easily adopted by farmers to convert crop residue into compost, enriching the soil and enhancing agricultural productivity.

Reduce energy consumption

Energy production and use is the largest source of anthropogenic air pollution globally. Therefore, reducing energy consumption is a key way to improve air quality.

Transport

Transport was responsible for 28% of total final energy consumption globally in 2016, and more than 90% of transport energy use depends on oil products. Since the majority of transport emissions are discharged at street level, often within densely populated cities, improvements in transport efficiency can have a significant impact on air pollution and human health.

You can reduce your energy consumption in transport by:

• Walking or riding a bike when possible
• Taking public transportation
• Organising and condensing errands into one trip
• Driving less, particularly on days with unhealthy air
• Carpooling
• Telecommuting
• Using an electric vehicle

Buildings

Mandatory building standards and retrofits that reduce energy consumption within buildings can also greatly reduce the need for power generation. "Green" buildings are designed, constructed, and operated with energy-efficient principles in mind. For example, a green building may be designed with windows placed to let in natural heat and light, reducing the need for artificial heating and lighting.

You can reduce your energy consumption in buildings by:

• Turning off electrical items when not in use
• Choosing efficient appliances and heating systems
• Getting an energy audit and following the advice
• Replacing energy-hungry incandescent lights with compact fluorescent light bulbs
• Using a fan instead of air conditioning
• Installing low-flow showerheads
• Adding insulation to your home
• Using a programmable thermostat and setting it to 78°F in the summer and 68°F in the winter
• Using a surge protector for multiple appliances and turning it off when products are not in use
• Insulating your water heater and any accessible hot water pipes
• Using an EPA-approved wood-burning stove or insert

Industry

Improvements in the efficiency of industrial sites can lead to significant reductions in emissions from fossil fuel-based power generation. Fossil fuel plants can employ carbon capture and storage technology to reduce levels of carbon emission per unit of electricity generated. The smart design of combustion units can improve efficiency by using the thermal heat gained from one unit to power others, reducing the loss of heat and therefore the need for combustion.

Agriculture

Agriculture is a large contributor to air pollution. Using nitrogen-based fertilisers, for example, releases ammonia, a precursor of secondary PM2.5 formation. Nitrogen-based fertilisers can also be oxidised and emitted into the air as nitrous oxide, a long-lived greenhouse gas.

You can reduce your energy consumption in agriculture by:

• Improving nitrogen-use efficiency in agricultural soils
• Improving fertiliser and manure management

Frequently asked questions