Average PM 2.5 worst in 5years, but Winter peak down, says CSE study

Context: As per an analysis by the Centre for Science and
Environment (CSE), while the peak Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM 2.5) levels have
dipped in winter, the average pollution has risen. This means that the upper
limit of the concentration of inordinately high PM 2.5 on a particular day has
reduced, but the pollutant concentration daily has been increasing. In the last
five years, the winter average of PM 2.5 concentration was the highest in
2023-24 at 189 μg/m3. There is a 9% increase in the winter average
concentration in 2023-24 compared to 2019-20. This upward trend needs immediate
action and reflects elevated levels of pollution and high impact of atmospheric
conditions.

Key points

·      
Overview: The CSE has based its analysis on data from the
Central Pollution Control Board. Peaks can be highly variable due to the
atmospheric conditions. But the increase in average level is a matter of worry.

·      
Reports: The annual PM 2.5 levels show an improvement of 7% in
2023 when compared to 2019. Delhi requires another 60% reduction to meet the
National Ambient Air Quality Standards for PM 2.5.

Ø  GNIDA campaign- With the implementation of Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan
in Delhi-NCR, the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) has
intensified its campaign to control pollution and keep the area free of
garbage.

·      
Centre for
Science and Environment (CSE): The
Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) is a public interest research and
advocacy organisation based in New Delhi. Established in 1980, CSE works as a
think tank on environment-development issues in India, poor planning, climate
shifts devastating India’s Sundarbans and advocates for policy changes and
better implementation of the already existing policies.

Mission and Objectives- Conducting research and analysis on environmental issues. Advocating
for policy changes and better implementation of existing policies. Building
awareness and capacity among stakeholders. Promoting sustainable practices and
technologies. Empowering communities to protect their environment and resources.

·      
Particulate
Matter 2.5: PM 2.5 is a type of
particulate matter (PM) that is a common measurement used to assess air quality.
PM 2.5 is a fine particle with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less.

Health risks- PM 2.5 is more harmful than PM 10 because of its smaller size, which
allows it to penetrate deep into the lungs and damage lung function.

Sources- PM
2.5 is produced by the combustion of gasoline, oil, diesel fuel, and wood.
Other sources include certain industrial processes.

Measurement- PM 2.5 is measured in micrograms per cubic meter.

Air Quality Index (AQI)- An AQI value of less than 50 is considered safe.

Other effects- PM 2.5 can also reduce visibility, impact the climate, and harm
ecosystems and materials.

·      
Central
Pollution Control Board (CPCB): It is a statutory body constituted in September 1974, under the Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. It serves as a field formation
and provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests of
the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.