Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM 2.5
Why in the News?
A recent study published in Nature Communications has analyzed the sources and health impacts of PM2.5 pollution in Northern India, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
About PM2.5
- PM2.5 (Particulate Matter ≤2.5 microns) refers to tiny air pollutants small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
- These fine particles come from both natural sources (like dust storms and wildfires) and human activities (like burning fossil fuels and industrial emissions).
- PM2.5 poses severe health risks, contributing to respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and reduced lung function.
- The oxidative potential of PM2.5 is an important indicator of its toxicity and ability to cause cellular damage.
Key Findings of the Study
- Major Sources of PM2.5 in Northern India:
- The study analyzed PM2.5 pollution across five locations in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, including Delhi and Kanpur.
- Delhi: PM2.5 is mainly from vehicular emissions, fossil fuel burning, and residential heating.
- Outside Delhi: It consists of ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, and biomass-burning aerosols.
- PM2.5 Toxicity and Health Risks:
- PM2.5 toxicity is linked to organic aerosols from inefficient combustion of biomass and fossil fuels.
- Traffic emissions and residential fuel burning significantly contribute to PM2.5-related health risks.
- Traffic as a Major Contributor:
- Hydrocarbon-like organic aerosols (HOA) from vehicular emissions were highest at urban roadside sites in Delhi (8 μg/m³).
- HOA accounts for 50% of fossil fuel-derived aerosols, increasing to 40% in warmer months.
- Winter Pollution Due to Residential Heating and Cooking:
- Cow dung combustion for heating and cooking in winter increases organic aerosols, with levels 10 times higher than in summer due to biomass burning and shallow boundary layers.
- India’s PM2.5 Toxicity Among the Highest Globally:
- The study found that PM2.5 oxidative potential (toxicity) in Indian cities is up to 5 times higher than in Chinese and European cities.
PYQ:[2016] In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of the Air Quality Index?
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only |
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