Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously ‘constitutionalization of environmental problems’ (in 2022), and ‘pollution control and management’ (in 2013).

Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, with PM 2.5 concentrations soaring far above safe limits.  The Supreme Court of India has mandated that schools in Delhi-NCR shift to online classes due to hazardous air quality levels.

Today’s editorial underscores the urgent need for effective policies to address both air pollution and its impact on education. This content can be used for recommending ‘Sustainable solutions’ while ensuring ‘Quality education’.

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Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

The ongoing crisis of severe air pollution is affecting schools in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). Recent developments highlight the challenges faced by students and the educational system amid deteriorating air quality.

What are the health impacts of poor air quality on students and educators?

• Respiratory Health Issues: Children exposed to pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can exacerbate asthma symptoms and trigger allergic reactions.
  • Studies show that children exposed to high pollution levels are at a greater risk of developing these conditions than adults.
• Cognitive Impairment: Research indicates that students in poorly ventilated classrooms perform worse on standardized tests compared to those in environments with better air quality. The cognitive deficits associated with air pollution can hinder problem-solving abilities and overall learning outcomes.
• Increased Absenteeism: Students suffering from health issues related to air pollution are more likely to miss school, which disrupts their learning process. Increased absenteeism not only affects individual academic progress but can also impact overall classroom dynamics.
• Psychological Effects: Concerns about health risks associated with poor air quality can lead to heightened stress and anxiety among students and educators. This psychological burden can further detract from the learning environment, making it less engaging and supportive

How has the Indian education system adapted to ongoing air quality challenges?

• Shift to Hybrid Learning Models: In response to deteriorating air quality, schools in Delhi and surrounding NCR cities have transitioned to hybrid learning models.
  • This approach combines online and physical classes, allowing students to attend lessons remotely when air quality is deemed hazardous.
• Implementation Challenges: Despite the shift, schools face significant challenges in implementing hybrid models effectively. For instance, some principals have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of hybrid learning, citing past experiences where it did not meet educational standards. Logistical issues such as access to technology and internet connectivity remain barriers for many students, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
• Government Initiatives and Policies: Initiatives such as the National Clean Air Programme aim to reduce particulate matter levels across major cities, although implementation has been inconsistent.
  • Educational frameworks are being updated to incorporate environmental education more robustly, addressing issues like climate change and pollution as part of the curriculum.
• Long-term Educational Strategies: The National Curriculum Framework encourages teaching about environmental issues, including pollution and climate change, which can help raise awareness among students about air quality challenges and their implications for health and society. 

What long-term implications does poor air quality have on cognitive performance?

• General Impact on Cognitive Function: Research indicates that long-term exposure to air pollutants, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), is associated with a decline in cognitive function.
  • A study involving over 25,000 participants found that higher levels of air pollution correlated with decreased performance in verbal and mathematical tests, particularly as individuals age. 
  • The negative effects were notably pronounced in older men with lower education levels, suggesting that chronic exposure can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities related to cognitive decline
• Specific Cognitive Domains Affected: Different studies have shown that exposure to PM2.5 can lead to slower response times and lower throughput in cognitive tasks, with effects worsening with increased pollution levels.
  • Semantic fluency tests have demonstrated significant declines in performance linked to air quality, reflecting broader implications for language processing and executive functions.
• Neurodevelopmental Effects: Research has shown that even “safe” levels of air pollution can alter developmental patterns in young brains, potentially leading to long-term cognitive deficits. This is concerning as it suggests that early exposure may set the stage for lifelong cognitive challenges.
• Increased Risk of Dementia and Cognitive Impairment: One study reported a hazard ratio indicating a 19% increased risk for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among those exposed to the highest levels of pollutants compared to those with lower exposure.
  • This suggests that the cumulative effects of poor air quality not only impair immediate cognitive performance but also contribute to serious long-term health issues.

Way Forward: As India grapples with severe air quality issues, it is crucial for policymakers to ensure that all students have equitable access to education while safeguarding their health. The situation calls for a collaborative approach involving government agencies, educational institutions, and communities to develop sustainable solutions that can withstand future environmental crises.

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/schooling-in-india-in-times-of-poor-air-quality/article68918906.ece