Air pollution leads to millions of premature deaths globally each year, with India being one of the worst-affected countries. Understanding where this pollution originates is key to designing effective mitigation strategies. Below is a breakdown of key pollutants and their primary sources based on recent data from 2022.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) – Major Cause of Acid Rain
- Primary Source: Energy production (Chart 1)
- Details:
- Predominantly from coal-based power plants
- Coal combustion releases SO₂ due to sulphur impurities
- Health Impact: Contributes to respiratory problems and acid rain
Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ) – Toxic to Lungs
- Major Sources (Chart 2):
- Transport sector (cars and trucks exhaust)
- Energy sector (burning coal and gas)
- Health Risk: Causes lung inflammation and exacerbates asthma
Black Carbon – The Deadly Soot
- Leading Sources (Chart 3):
- Biomass and charcoal cooking in low-income households
- Open waste burning
- Impact:
- Contributes to respiratory illnesses
- Major component of PM2.5 air pollution
Methane (CH₄) – Potent Greenhouse Gas
- Top Contributors (Chart 4):
- Agriculture (livestock, rice paddies)
- Waste (rotting organic matter in landfills)
- Environmental Concern: Strong global warming potential
Ammonia (NH₃) – A Hidden Killer
- Almost Entirely From: Agriculture (Chart 5)
- Released from fertilizers and animal waste
- Impact:
- Forms fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
- Linked to 3,85,000 premature deaths annually
Non-Methane Volatile Organic Compounds (NMVOCs) – Silent Threats
- Uncommon Sources (Chart 6):
- Solvents in paints, cleaning agents
- Chemical manufacturing
- Health Risk: Contribute to ozone formation and indoor air toxicity
Sectoral Action Needed
Air pollution in India stems from energy, transport, agriculture, waste, and household sources. Each pollutant has distinct sources and health effects, underlining the need for sector-specific policies such as:
- Clean energy transition from coal
- Vehicle emission standards
- Agricultural reform in fertilizer use
- Better waste management and cooking alternatives
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