Reducing Pollution In India: Strategies For A Sustainable Future

India is facing a public health emergency due to the country's poor air quality, which has consistently worsened over the past two decades. Air pollution is a causal factor in a host of medical issues, including chronic pulmonary and heart conditions, strokes, lung cancers, and respiratory infections. It is estimated that the economic cost of air pollution to India is around USD 150 billion annually.

Delhi, India's capital, has been named the world's most polluted capital city for four years in a row. The city's air pollution levels were over ten times the safe levels prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for seven months in 2021.

Despite the implementation of various policies and programmes to address air pollution, India's air quality has continued to deteriorate. Experts attribute this to poorly designed policies and overlooked causes, such as emissions from outside city boundaries and stubble burning during the harvest season.

To effectively reduce pollution in India, a combination of comprehensive policy changes, increased investment in specialized workforces, citizen engagement, and innovative solutions is required.

Reduce emissions from vehicles

Vehicle emissions are a significant contributor to India's air pollution crisis, with up to 50% of toxic particulate matter in cities like Delhi coming from cars, scooters, trucks, and other vehicles. To reduce vehicular pollution, the following measures can be implemented:

Policy interventions

• The Bharat Stage VI emission standards, which target tailpipe emissions such as nitrogen oxides and fine particulate matter, are a step in the right direction. This national policy, which came into effect in 2020, is one of India's most aggressive efforts against air pollution. It covers most vehicles on Indian roads and brings the country's regulations in line with those of the European Union.
• The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) should be better designed to address the issue of emissions from outside city boundaries, such as industrial emissions and crop burning. The NCAP should also have legally enforceable targets and adequate funding to be effective.
• Implement policies to encourage the use of public transportation, carpooling, and electric vehicles. This can include subsidies or incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, investments in public transportation infrastructure, and the development of carpool or ride-sharing programs.
• Restrict the use of private vehicles, especially during high-pollution periods. This can include temporary bans or restrictions on the use of diesel or petrol-run vehicles, particularly older models that do not meet modern emission standards.
• Penalize the oldest and most polluting vehicle models. This can be done through emissions testing programs and registration restrictions.

Technological advancements

• Invest in research and development for cleaner and more efficient vehicle technologies, such as electric or alternative fuel vehicles.
• Promote the use of real-time emissions monitoring systems and data analysis tools to identify high-pollution areas and sources. This data can be used to implement targeted emergency measures, such as temporarily limiting traffic or restricting the use of certain types of vehicles.
• Explore the use of satellite data to monitor air quality and identify areas that require urgent attention.

Public engagement and education

• Increase public awareness about the impact of vehicle emissions on air quality and health. Educate citizens about the benefits of using public transportation, carpooling, or electric vehicles.
• Encourage citizens to report vehicles that are visibly emitting excessive pollutants, such as black smoke or strong fumes. Provide a mechanism for reporting and enforcing penalties for non-compliance.
• Involve citizens in the development and implementation of transportation policies and programs to reduce vehicular pollution. This can include community meetings, surveys, or other forms of engagement to ensure that the measures are feasible and effective for the local population.

Improve air quality monitoring

India has implemented several policies to address air pollution, including the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which was launched in 2019 with the aim of improving air quality in 122 of India's most polluted cities. However, the NCAP has faced challenges due to underfunding and poor design, and has not led to significant improvements in air quality.

To effectively improve air quality monitoring in India, the following measures can be implemented:

Expand and Improve Monitoring Infrastructure

India should invest in expanding and improving its air quality monitoring infrastructure. This includes increasing the number of monitoring stations, particularly in areas with high population density and vulnerable communities. The government can also explore the use of satellite data and remote sensing technologies to complement ground-based monitoring.

Enhance Data Collection and Analysis

Collecting accurate and comprehensive data is crucial for effective air quality monitoring. India can improve data collection by deploying advanced air quality sensors and technologies that measure a range of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. Standardising data collection methods and ensuring proper maintenance of monitoring equipment are also important steps to ensure data accuracy.

Establish a Centralised Data Platform

A centralised data platform can be developed to aggregate and analyse air quality data from various sources, including ground-based monitors, satellites, and modelling outputs. This platform can provide real-time air quality information to the public, enabling citizens to make informed decisions about their health and activities. Additionally, this platform can support policymakers and researchers in identifying pollution hotspots and developing targeted interventions.

Strengthen Collaboration and Information Sharing

Effective air quality monitoring requires collaboration between different government agencies, research institutions, and community organisations. Sharing data and expertise among these stakeholders can lead to more comprehensive assessments of air quality and the development of effective mitigation strategies.

Enhance Public Awareness and Engagement

Engaging citizens in the process of air quality monitoring and improvement is crucial. Providing accessible and timely information about air quality, health risks, and ways to reduce pollution can empower citizens to take action. Public education campaigns, community workshops, and the use of mobile applications or websites can be utilised to enhance public awareness and encourage behavioural changes that reduce air pollution.

Utilise Forecasting Technologies for Proactive Measures

Pollution forecasting technologies can be leveraged to predict periods of high air pollution and implement proactive measures. For example, if high levels of air pollution are anticipated, authorities can temporarily restrict traffic, halt construction work, or advise vulnerable individuals to stay indoors. By taking action before pollution levels peak, the impact on public health and the environment can be mitigated.

Regularly Review and Update Air Quality Standards

Air quality standards should be regularly reviewed and updated based on the latest scientific evidence and global best practices. India can refer to the World Health Organization's (WHO) guidelines and collaborate with international organisations to stay informed about emerging research and technologies in air quality monitoring and management.

Reduce waste and sewage pollution

India's waterways are under threat from pollution, with untreated sewage being the leading cause. The government has set ambitious targets to treat over 95% of Delhi's wastewater by the end of 2022, but this requires significant investment in infrastructure and a shift towards more sustainable practices.

Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems (DEWATS)

One innovative solution is the Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System (DEWATS) developed by the Consortium for Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System Dissemination Society (CDD). DEWATS is a low-cost, natural process that uses bacteria, plants, and gravity to treat wastewater. It is designed to treat wastewater closer to the source, reducing the need for extensive underground piping. This system is up to 80% cheaper to operate than conventional methods and can help reduce freshwater usage by half for domestic activities like washing, flushing, and gardening.

Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has also recommended the adoption of the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) system for new treatment plants in Delhi. MBBR is a modern Norwegian technology that treats water using biological processes. While effective, this system has high maintenance costs, which could be a challenge for cash-strapped local governments.

Other Treatment Options

Other treatment options, such as the Sequential Batch Reactor (SBR) and Activated Sludge Process (ASP), can be considered for larger sewage treatment plants. These systems vary in their effectiveness and cost, so local governments must assess their needs and resources when deciding on a treatment system.

Policy Changes and Infrastructure Development

The Indian government has implemented the National River Conservation Plan, which includes measures such as sewage treatment plants and riverfront development to improve water quality. Additionally, the Central Pollution Control Board, under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, has established a National Water Quality Monitoring Network with over 1,400 monitoring stations across the country to assess water quality.

Public Awareness and Education

Educating the public about the harmful effects of pollution and how they can reduce their environmental impact is crucial. Individuals can play a role in reducing waste and sewage pollution by properly disposing of waste, reducing water consumption, and treating wastewater before disposal.

Encourage Green Practices

The government should encourage individuals and businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices such as recycling, composting, and rainwater harvesting. These practices can help reduce waste and water pollution while also fostering a culture of sustainability.

Regulate Waste Disposal

Strict regulations on waste disposal, particularly hazardous waste, are necessary to prevent soil and water pollution. The government must ensure that waste is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner and that industries adhere to waste reduction and recycling programs.

Promote Clean Energy

Transitioning to clean energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, can help reduce pollution from power plants. This will also reduce the demand for fossil fuels, which are a major contributor to air and water pollution.

Improve Public Transportation

Encouraging the use of public transportation can help reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, thereby reducing vehicular emissions and air pollution.

Ban firecrackers

India's air pollution problem is a pressing issue, with the country experiencing some of the most polluted cities in the world. Delhi, for example, has been ranked as the most polluted capital city for several years, with air pollution levels over ten times the safe levels set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

One significant contributor to this issue is the use of firecrackers, which are small explosive devices designed to produce a large amount of noise, often used in celebrations. The toxic smog generated by firecrackers during festivals like Diwali can worsen existing air pollution. In recognition of this, the Delhi government has imposed a complete ban on all types of firecrackers until January 1, 2025, as part of its Winter Action Plan 2024. This ban includes the manufacturing, storage, selling, and bursting of firecrackers within the city.

This is not the first time such a ban has been implemented. In 2017, the Supreme Court banned firecrackers in Delhi, and in 2020, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered a ban on the sale and use of crackers in the NCR region. These actions were taken to combat the harmful effects of firecrackers on air quality. Despite these efforts, however, many firecrackers were still used during the 2020 Diwali celebrations, leading to Delhi's air pollution levels spiking to over nine times the safe level.

The use of firecrackers not only impacts air quality but also has negative consequences for public health. The fine particulate matter produced by firecrackers can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. Additionally, the noise generated by firecrackers can cause hearing damage, particularly in children.

To address these concerns, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) developed "green crackers" in 2020, which use less polluting raw materials and produce lower emissions and reduced noise levels. However, even these "green crackers" still contain harmful pollutants such as aluminium, barium, potassium nitrate, and carbon.

While the ban on firecrackers is a step in the right direction, it is essential to recognize that addressing India's air pollution crisis will require a coordinated effort involving various strategies and the implementation of comprehensive policies.

Reduce crop burning

India is the second-largest agro-based economy in the world and generates a large amount of agricultural waste, including crop residues. In the absence of adequate sustainable management practices, approximately 92 metric tons of crop waste is burned every year in India, causing excessive particulate matter emissions and air pollution.

Composting, Biochar Production, and Mechanization

Composting, biochar production, and mechanization are some effective sustainable techniques that can help curtail the issue while retaining the nutrients present in the crop residue in the soil.

Government Intervention

The Government of India has attempted to curtail this problem through numerous measures and campaigns designed to promote sustainable management methods, such as converting crop residue into energy.

National Schemes and Policies

The Government of India has also directed the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) to mix crop residue pellets (nearly 10%) with coal for power generation. This has helped farmers with a monetary return of approximately Rs. 5500 (77 USD) per ton of crop residue.

Biogas Plants

Biogas plants are another initiative by the Government of India to curb crop burning and prevent pollution. These plants generate biogas through the anaerobic biodegradation of municipal solid waste and agricultural waste.

Sustainable Management Practices for Crop Residue

Some of the residues are processed and used in construction applications, such as the use of rice husk ash in cement mixes. Banana peels and sugarcane waste are utilized in the paper industry, while husk and bagasse ash are used for mushroom cultivation.

Nexus Thinking

The Government of India can also benefit from the emerging concept of nexus thinking in managing environmental resources. Nexus thinking promotes a higher level of integration and stakeholder involvement that goes beyond disciplinary boundaries, providing a supporting platform to solve issues such as crop residue burning.

The Way Forward

The real reasons behind crop residue burning have more socioeconomic roots rather than agricultural or waste management ones. Any solutions involving long-haul transportation, expensive technology, or high capital investment are less likely to succeed. Instead, sustainable solutions that involve methods to feed the nutrients in the crop residue back into the same crop lands have better promises to be successful.

Crop residue burning has become an environmental catastrophe, not only for India but for the entire Asian region. The Government of India's interventions and initiatives, along with the adoption of sustainable management practices, are crucial steps in addressing this issue.

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