Opinion: for an expanse of blue, with air so clean
CURRENT AFFAIRS FOR 07TH SEPTEMBER, 2023
Opinion: for an expanse of blue, with air so clean
The earth is currently witnessing a triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. While scorching heat waves, devastating floods and erratic weather patterns are a reminder of climate change, there is another silent killer– air pollution.
Global health statistics reveal a disturbing scenario with lung cancer claiming 10 million deaths worldwide in 2020, as stated in the WHO factsheet published in 2023.
South Asia, home to two billion people, is also home to nine of the world's 10 most polluted cities, including Delhi.
While policy measures have led to statistical improvements in the Air Quality Index, the health risks associated with Delhi's polluted air persist.
Delhi's air, a lethal mix of sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides along with high particulate matter concentrations, CO and ozone, leads to cardiovascular disorders, respiratory ailments and mental health issues. It is especially troublesome for immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, children and the elderly.
Efforts are being made to combat this crisis like the PUSA Decomposer developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, employing biotechnology to address agricultural pollution. State-level policies such as the Graded Rapid Action Plan, monitoring air quality in hotspots and establishing Green War Rooms have shown potential.
Viable solutions to tackle the issue are: car-free zones, green spaces, smart urban designs, electric public transport, and clean biotech innovations.
In 2019, the UNGA decided to designate September 7 as the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.