India's Air Pollution Leadership: A Historical Perspective

India has been struggling with air pollution for decades, and in recent years, it has emerged as one of the most polluted countries in the world. With 21 of the world's 30 most polluted cities, India's toxic air is a major public health crisis, causing millions of premature deaths and contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. While India has made some efforts to address air pollution, such as implementing the National Clean Air Programme and collaborating with organizations like the World Bank and NRDC, the country continues to grapple with the intertwined social, health, and economic challenges posed by poor air quality.

India's air pollution crisis

India has been grappling with severe air pollution, which has emerged as a pressing environmental issue. In 2018, India was declared the most polluted country in the world, with 21 out of the 30 most polluted cities globally. The air quality crisis in India has been driven by various factors, including industrial and vehicular emissions, construction dust, crop burning, and the use of wood and dung for cooking and heating by low-income households.

The health impacts of air pollution in India are profound, with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases being a significant concern. Lung cancer rates have risen, with chest surgeons observing black deposits in teenage lungs, a shocking development unseen 30 years ago. Air pollution has also been linked to increased risks of asthma, reduced foetal growth, stunted lung development in children, and cognitive impairment. The Global Burden of Disease Study for 2010 found that outdoor air pollution was the fifth-largest killer in India, causing approximately 620,000 premature deaths in 2010. More recent estimates suggest that air pollution contributes to over 2 million premature deaths annually in India.

The economic costs of air pollution are also significant. In 2019, India incurred economic losses of $36.8 billion due to premature deaths and morbidity, amounting to 1.36% of the country's GDP. A study estimated that if India had achieved safe air quality levels in 2019, its GDP would have increased by $95 billion. The productivity losses due to pollution can be substantial, with the World Bank estimating a loss of 8.5% of GDP in low to middle-income countries.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, India has taken several steps to address its air quality crisis. In 2015, the Government of India launched the National Air Quality Index, followed by the National Clean Air Programme in 2019, aiming to reduce particulate matter pollution by 20-30% by 2024. The programme covers 132 cities with poor air quality, promoting city-specific management plans and cross-jurisdictional collaboration. India's Parliament also approved the establishment of the Commission of Air Quality Management in 2021 to address the issue more effectively. Additionally, India has introduced clean fuel standards, transitioned to LPG for domestic fuel, and promoted the use of CNG in vehicles to reduce sulphur dioxide levels.

Furthermore, India is working with the World Bank to implement state and regional airshed plans for cleaner air. The World Bank's program introduces tools for airshed management and planning, supporting India's efforts to enhance knowledge, build capacity, and involve stakeholders in tackling air pollution. The Clean Air Fund is also playing a crucial role in empowering healthcare professionals and raising awareness about the health impacts of air pollution. Businesses are increasingly involved, with the India CEO Forum for Clean Air gaining momentum, and the Clean Air Alliance partnering with major Indian businesses to drive change.

Health impacts of air pollution

India's air pollution levels are among the highest in the world, and this poses a significant threat to the health of its citizens. The country's entire population of 1.4 billion people is exposed to unhealthy levels of ambient PM 2.5, the most harmful pollutant, which is emitted by factories, cars, and other sources. This fine particulate matter, with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns, is about one-thirtieth the width of a human hair. Exposure to PM 2.5 has been linked to serious health issues, including lung cancer, stroke, and heart disease.

The health impacts of air pollution in India are far-reaching and devastating. It is a leading cause of premature death and disease in the country, contributing to more than 2 million deaths annually. In 2019, 1.67 million deaths were attributed to air pollution, accounting for 17.8% of total deaths in India. The Global Burden of Disease Study for 2010, published in 2013, found that outdoor air pollution was the fifth-largest killer in India, with approximately 620,000 early deaths occurring from air pollution-related diseases in 2010. According to the non-profit Health Effects Institute, over a million Indians die prematurely each year due to air pollution.

The impact of air pollution on health is not limited to mortality but also includes a range of diseases and health problems. Long-term exposure to particulate matter has been associated with respiratory and cardiovascular issues such as asthma, bronchitis, COPD, and an increased risk of heart attack. Additionally, air pollution can lead to reduced productivity and labour supply, as well as increased healthcare expenditures and lost welfare. The economic cost of premature deaths and morbidity attributable to air pollution in India is substantial, with lost output causing economic losses.

The sources of air pollution in India are diverse and include industrial and vehicular emissions, construction dust and debris, the burning of waste, and the use of wood and dung for cooking and heating by low-income and rural households. India's rapid economic growth and development have also contributed to the problem. While the government has implemented various measures to address air pollution, such as the National Clean Air Programme launched in 2019, the country continues to face significant challenges in improving air quality and reducing the health risks associated with pollution.

The impact of air pollution is felt disproportionately by poorer individuals, including those working in construction, factories, and unhygienic environments. Their health is more vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality, and they may also experience financial consequences due to reduced productivity and increased healthcare expenses. Additionally, the entire population of New Delhi, the capital city, is affected by poor air quality, which has led to the closure of schools and the suspension of outdoor activities on multiple occasions.

Economic impacts of air pollution

India has long struggled with air pollution, which poses a significant threat to the country's health and economy. While the country has taken steps to address this issue, it continues to be a challenge.

The economic impacts of air pollution in India are significant, with the country facing billions of dollars in losses due to the issue. In 2019, lost output from premature deaths and morbidity attributable to air pollution resulted in economic losses of US$28.8 billion and $8 billion, respectively. This total loss of $36.8 billion was approximately 1.36% of India's gross domestic product (GDP). The economic impact of air pollution varies across Indian states, with low per-capita GDP states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh experiencing the highest losses. Delhi, the capital, had the highest per-capita economic loss due to air pollution in 2019.

The high number of pollution-related deaths and diseases in India has substantial economic implications, hindering the country's aspiration to become a $5 trillion economy by 2024. Achieving safe air quality levels would have resulted in substantial economic gains for India. For example, if India had achieved safe air quality levels in 2019, its GDP would have increased by $95 billion due to lower rates of absenteeism, higher productivity, higher consumer footfall, and fewer premature deaths.

The economic costs of air pollution extend beyond the direct impact on GDP. The healthcare costs associated with treating pollution-related diseases are significant. Additionally, air pollution affects industries such as agriculture, with studies showing that poor air quality reduces crop yields. Furthermore, air pollution also impacts the tourism industry, as potential visitors may opt for less polluted destinations.

To address the economic impacts of air pollution, India has implemented various measures. The country has introduced cleaner fuel standards, increased the use of LPG as domestic fuel instead of coal or fuel wood, and promoted the use of electric vehicles. India has also launched ambitious programs like the National Clean Air Program, which aims to reduce particulate matter pollution by 20-30% by 2024. The government has also strengthened vehicular and industrial emission standards and placed a strong emphasis on expanding renewable energy sources. These initiatives demonstrate India's commitment to mitigating the economic and health consequences of air pollution.

Government initiatives to combat air pollution

India has been taking proactive steps to combat air pollution, which has been a persistent issue in the country. The government has implemented various initiatives and policies to address this crisis and improve air quality. Here are some key government initiatives:

National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): India launched the National Clean Air Programme in 2019 with the ambitious target of reducing PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 20-30% by 2024. The programme focuses on 102 cities with air quality worse than the National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Commission of Air Quality Management: In August 2021, India's Parliament approved the establishment of the Commission of Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas. This commission aims to address the hazardous levels of air pollution that have caused a public health crisis, requiring coordination across local and national boundaries.

Clean Fuel and Vehicle Standards: India has strengthened vehicular and industrial emission standards by encouraging the use of cleaner fuels and promoting electric vehicles. This includes the increasing adoption of LPG as domestic fuel instead of coal or fuelwood and the use of CNG in vehicles instead of diesel.

Renewable Energy and LPG Initiatives: The government has placed a strong emphasis on expanding renewable energy sources and supplying LPG cooking fuel to millions of households. This helps reduce pollution from the burning of wood and dirty fuels, which is a significant contributor to indoor air pollution.

Airshed Management and Planning: The World Bank has been supporting India in Air Quality Management by introducing tools for airshed management and planning. These tools help standardize control strategies and data sets, enabling effective coordination across cities and states.

Collaboration and Research: India has embraced collaboration, research, and innovation to tackle air pollution. Initiatives like the NCAP and GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan), along with technological advancements and community-led studies, demonstrate India's commitment to finding solutions.

These initiatives by the Indian government aim to reduce air pollution and mitigate its impact on public health and the economy. While challenges remain, India is taking significant steps towards ensuring cleaner air for its citizens.

Public awareness and activism against air pollution

India has been grappling with air pollution for a long time, and it is a critical issue that demands urgent action. The country has witnessed a rise in public awareness and activism in recent years, with people demanding stricter air quality laws and policies to tackle this environmental crisis.

Public Awareness

Public awareness about air pollution in India is increasing, especially in cities like Delhi, where hazardous air quality has become a major concern for residents. People are recognizing the severe health impacts of air pollution, which include respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and premature deaths. A 2020 survey revealed that over 90% of respondents in India wanted improved air quality in their area, indicating a growing consciousness among the populace.

The Indian government, through its Central Pollution Control Board, routinely monitors key air pollutants such as sulphur dioxide (SO2), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), suspended particulate matter (SPM), and respirable particulate matter (PM10). This data is crucial for formulating effective policies to combat air pollution. Additionally, the government has launched initiatives like the National Clean Air Programme, which aims to reduce particulate matter pollution by 20-30% by 2024.

Activism Against Air Pollution

India's youth have been at the forefront of activism, demanding innovative solutions to the country's toxic air problem. They are engaging in public awareness campaigns, advocating for policy changes, and participating in competitions that foster creative approaches to mitigating air pollution. For instance, Delhi's Team Triplets from the Shri Ram College of Commerce developed a comprehensive five-point plan for the transportation sector, along with public awareness campaigns addressing lung cancer and healthcare accessibility.

Businesses are also playing a significant role in tackling air pollution. The India CEO Forum for Clean Air has gained momentum, with prominent companies like Wipro and Mahindra Group joining the Clean Air Alliance. The Clean Air Fund has empowered healthcare professionals to amplify their voices in the clean air movement, ensuring that the health impacts of air pollution remain a key focus.

Community-Led Initiatives

Community-led initiatives are vital to addressing air pollution in India due to the country's vastness and diversity. Local solutions with active community participation are more effective than one-size-fits-all approaches. Community-led air quality monitoring, green infrastructure initiatives, and art and awareness campaigns are some of the innovative strategies being employed. For example, community members are being empowered to use low-cost sensors and mobile apps to monitor air quality in their neighbourhoods, enabling them to advocate for policy changes and implement interventions at a local level.

International Collaboration

India is also collaborating with international organizations and experts to address air pollution. The World Bank, for instance, is introducing tools for airshed management and planning to support state and regional air quality management approaches. Additionally, the Clean Air Fund is working with the Indian government, businesses, and the public to achieve India's clean air goals.

In conclusion, India has witnessed a surge in public awareness and activism against air pollution. Citizens, youth, businesses, and community organizations are demanding change and working collaboratively to address this pressing issue. Through innovative solutions, policy advocacy, and international partnerships, India is striving to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution on its people and the environment.

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