Environment: Air Pollution & Air Quality Index

Air pollution is the presence of substances in the atmosphere that are harmful to the health of humans and other living beings. In India, the CPCB monitors this through the National Air Quality Index (AQI).

The National AQI (One Number-One Color-One Description)

• Categories: There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe.
• Pollutants Tracked: The index considers 8 pollutants: PM₁₀, PM_2.5, NO₂, SO₂, CO, O₃ (Ozone), NH₃ (Ammonia), and Pb (Lead).
• Health Impacts: PM_2.5 is particularly dangerous as it can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.

Legislative & Institutional Framework

• Air Act (1981): The primary legislation aimed at the prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution in India.
• SAFAR: System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research, introduced by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• NCAP: The National Clean Air Programme aims for a 20% to 30% reduction in particulate matter concentration by 2024.
• Green Crackers: Developed by CSIR-NEERI to reduce emissions by 30% compared to traditional firecrackers.

Question for you: Which pollutant is commonly known as “Silent Killer” because it is colorless, odorless, and reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood?

Let us know your answer on our social media! 👇

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