India’s critical efforts to tackle air pollution could worsen warming
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
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Topic: GS3 – Environment – Environmental pollution and degradation |
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Context |
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Aerosols and Greenhouse Gases
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Aerosols and greenhouse gases both impact the climate but in different ways.
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Greenhouse gases trap heat, causing global warming, while aerosols reflect sunlight, creating a cooling effect.
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Greenhouse gases remain in the atmosphere for centuries, while aerosols last only a few days to weeks.
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What are aerosols? |
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Air Pollution and Climate Change in India
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India is struggling to reduce air pollution while also addressing climate change.
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Aerosols from industrial activities, especially thermal power plants, contribute to cooling but also cause respiratory problems.
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If aerosol emissions are reduced quickly without reducing greenhouse gases, extreme heat could increase in polluted regions.
Effects of Aerosol Reduction on Temperature and Rainfall
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Regions that reduced aerosols in the past experienced a rise in warming trends.
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The removal of aerosols can cause an immediate increase in temperatures.
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Aerosols also impact the monsoon; their reduction may increase rainfall in India.
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Studies show that reducing aerosols in one country can affect climate patterns in distant regions.
Policy Challenges and Recommendations
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Policymakers must consider the trade-offs between air pollution control and climate change mitigation.
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Vulnerable populations, especially in highly polluted areas, need better heat action plans.
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Long-term adaptation strategies should focus on balancing warming, rainfall changes, and public health benefits.
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Reducing aerosols improves human health, outweighing short-term warming effects.
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Practice Question: How do aerosols impact climate change, air quality, and human health? Discuss their role in global warming and the challenges of reducing aerosol pollution. (150 Words /10 marks) |
