CRITICAL THINKING for solving air pollution.pptx

air pollution

1. CRITICAL THINKING TOPIC - KEY ENVIRONMENT CONCERN IN A PARTICULAR REGION OF THE COUNTRY AIR POLLUTION IN PATNA

2. Patna city is consistently ranks among the most polluted cities in the world, with high level of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) posing significant health risk. The Indo-Gangetic plain faces massive aerosol loading which is also one of the reasons for air pollution. Construction of the Patna Metro, Flyovers, and high-rise apartments are also taking place on the outskirts of the city responsible for the deterioration of Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city. The roads are not wider as compared to other metro cities which are leading to the heavy traffic and release of more toxic gases in the air. Domestic use of woods, coal, biomass fuels, such as cow dung cakes and agricultural waste are also responsible for poor air quality. According to the data of Bihar State Pollution Control Board , the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Patna registered 416 AQI in November 2023. According to the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago's Air Quality Life Index , residents of Patna could live about 7.7 years longer if the World Health Organization’s (WHO) PM 2.5 guidelines are met.   INTRODUCTION

3. WHY IT IS NEEDED TO BE STUDIED: This study provides a foundation for raising awareness among students of the adverse health impacts associated with declining air quality, emphasizing the urgency in taking appropriate measures to counter this challenge. Air pollution is a serious issue in most parts of Bihar, especially in its capital city, Patna. The air quality in Patna has significantly worsened due to factors like rapid urbanization, increased traffic, and various natural and human-related causes. This decline in air quality has led to several negative health effects

4. REASON BEHIND CHOOSING PATNA: Patna being the capital of Bihar India, particularly bears the brunt of air pollution, a burgeoning concern across numerous regions worldwide . Several factors, including rapid urbanization, an increase in vehicular traffic, and a blend of natural and anthropogenic sources, have resulted in significant deterioration of Patna’s air quality. Multifaceted challenges have been posed as a result of deteriorating air quality, especially in the context of public health.

5. MAJOR DRIVERS OR CAUSES OF THE AIR POLLUTION IN PATNA, BIHAR Patna Metro Construction - Various construction activities like use of heavy machinery, excavations are done and no proper dust control measures are taken into action. This has led to various problems like deteriorating people’s breathing patterns. People have been reported with asthma, respiratory problems and other health issues caused by the poor air quality. It also has led to more traffic congestion.   Vehicle Emissions - With more congestion in traffic, it leads to more emission of the toxic chemicals like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides and other unburnt hydrocarbons.   Rapid Urbanization - heavy construction activities produce dust. The green areas of the city are also being removed for construction of buildings, infrastructure development.

6. Burning - Stubble burning, domestic burning of wood and cow-dung in the outskirts of Patna . Industries also burn the waste which also contributes to air pollution in industrial areas of the city. These wastes mainly include non-biodegradable wastes release toxic gases or chemicals into air. During winter when the smoke is released, they combine with fog to form ‘smog’ which leads to more worse situations.   Flyover Construction - activities like excavation, concrete mixing, use of heavy machinery involves or produces a lot of dust. This affects the workers, daily-commuters and the people living nearby. Affecting respiratory systems and leading to various other health problems.

7. THE MAJOR DRIVERS OF THE ISSUES IN THE REGION

8. SOCIAL ASPECTS 1.Increased Health Problems: Poor air quality leads to a rise in respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 2.Economic Impact: Environmental degradation can affect local economies. For instance, poor air quality can impact productivity and increase healthcare costs. 3.Educational Impact: Poor air quality can affect school attendance and concentration levels among students, potentially impacting their academic performance and long-term educational outcomes. 4.Policy and Governance: High levels of air pollution can lead to increased public demand for governmental action and improved environmental policies. Citizens may push for stricter regulations on emissions and better urban planning.

9. ECONOMICAL ASPECTS 1. Healthcare Costs: Higher rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases due to poor air quality lead to increased medical costs for individuals and families. The burden on healthcare facilities increases as more people seek treatment for pollution-related illnesses. This can strain public health resources and affect the quality of care available to all residents 2. Lost Productivity: Individuals who are affected by pollution-related health issues may experience decreased work efficiency and performance, impacting business productivity and economic productivity. 3.Economic Impact on Businesses: Companies may face higher costs due to increased employee health care expenses, and the need to implement measures to mitigate pollution effects, such as improved air filtration systems or more frequent cleaning. 4.Agricultural Impact: Air pollution, particularly ground-level ozone, can harm crops and reduce agricultural yields. This impacts farmers’ incomes and can lead to higher food prices in the local market.

10. ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS 1.Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10): High concentrations of particulate matter in the air can lead to poor air quality, which affects both human health and the environment. These particles can settle on soil and water bodies, impacting ecosystems. 2.Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Emissions from vehicles and industries contribute to elevated levels of NO2 and SO2, which can lead to the formation of acid rain. This affects soil, water, and vegetation. 3.Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Air pollution from sources like vehicles and industrial processes often includes greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). These contribute to global warming and climate change, which have broader environmental impacts. 4.Impact on Scenic Areas: Pollutants can obscure views of natural landmarks and scenic areas, diminishing their appeal and potentially affecting local tourism and recreation. 5.Persistent Contamination: Continued air pollution can lead to long-term environmental degradation, including the accumulation of harmful substances in the environment and persistent negative impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity.

11. FUTURE ANTICIPATED TRENDS Urban Expansion: Rapid urbanization and population growth in Patna could lead to higher vehicle emissions, construction dust, and industrial activities, potentially increasing air pollution levels if not managed properly. Advanced Technologies: The use of advanced air quality monitoring technologies and networks could provide more accurate and real-time data on pollution levels, helping to better understand and manage air quality issues Public Awareness: Increased public awareness and access to air quality information could lead to greater community engagement in efforts to reduce pollution and advocate for better environmental practices. Government Initiatives: Increased focus on environmental sustainability at the government level could lead to new policies and initiatives aimed at reducing air pollution and promoting sustainable development. Collaborative Efforts: Collaborative efforts between government, industry, and civil society could foster effective strategies for air quality management and environmental protection

12. SOLUTION Patna Clean Air Action Plan The Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) developed the Patna Clean Air Action Plan (PCAAP) with technical assistance from various organizations. The plan was launched on November 23, 2019 by the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, Shri Sushil Kumar Modi. The plan uses scientific methodology to address air pollution in the city.    Air quality monitoring dashboard for air quality monitoring sensors in all 543 block offices in the state in March 2024.   Street sweeping and water sprinkling sweeping streets and sprinkling water on roads within the jurisdiction of the Municipal Corporation.   Other initiatives The government is also covering construction materials during transportation, promoting e-vehicles and environment-friendly fuel, and checking vehicle emissions. 

13. PATNA NEEDS TO IMPLEMENT COMPREHENSIVE AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES, INCLUDING: 1. Regulating Emissions: Enforcing stricter emission standards for vehicles and industrial processes. 2. Promoting Green Technologies: Encouraging the use of cleaner technologies and renewable energy sources. 3. Enhancing Urban Planning: Improving urban infrastructure to reduce pollution sources and promote green spaces. 4. Monitoring and Research: Investing in monitoring systems and research to better understand and address the environmental impacts of air pollution. CONCLUSION Air pollution in Patna has reached alarming levels, posing significant health risks to its residents. The city’s air quality index consistently hovers over 300, categorizing it as ‘’very poor’’. Rising pollution has led to a surge in acute respiratory infections, with cases exceeding 1.2 million in 2019-20. Factors like unregulated construction, vehicular emissions, and dust from soft alluvial soil contribute to this crisis. Urgent measures are needed to mitigate pollution and safeguard public health in Patna.