Latest ENVIRONMENT News | Top ENVIRONMENT News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking ENVIRONMENT News Today | English ENVIRONMENT News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Environment, Not Genes, Drives Early Death Risk, Study Finds

February 20, 2025, 6:23 pm

A groundbreaking study published in Nature Medicine has shed new light on the pivotal role of environmental factors in determining the risk of premature death. The research, based on an extensive analysis of data from nearly 500,000 participants in the UK BioBank, suggests that environmental influences are approximately 10 times more significant than genetic predispositions in shaping an individual’s likelihood of experiencing early death.

The Exposome: A Critical Factor in Health

The concept of “exposome,” coined to describe the full range of environmental exposures that affect an individual throughout their life, is central to understanding the study’s findings. This includes various factors, such as living conditions, diet, air quality, and behaviors like smoking, that can directly influence our overall health and longevity.

Dr. Austin Argentieri, the lead author of the research from Harvard and the Broad Institute, emphasized the substantial impact of the environment in shaping our health. He argued that the environment plays a far more substantial role in the development of age-related chronic diseases, as opposed to our genetic makeup. According to Dr. Argentieri, “Investments in understanding and modifying our environments are likely going to have a profound impact on improving health for all of us.”

The study’s implications suggest that while our genetic makeup may provide a predisposition to certain health conditions, it is the exposure to various environmental factors that more significantly determines the age at which these diseases manifest and their severity.

Study Methodology and Key Findings

The research team analyzed data from the UK BioBank, which included detailed information about nearly half a million participants. These individuals had provided responses to comprehensive questionnaires about their lifestyle, health habits, and socio-economic conditions. In addition, the study incorporated health data, including reports on the incidence of diseases and deaths that occurred after the participants enrolled in the study.

The analysis explored how 164 different environmental exposures—ranging from salt intake to living with a partner—related to the risk of premature death. After carefully excluding confounding factors, such as exposures that were directly linked to pre-existing diseases, the researchers narrowed their focus to 85 key environmental exposures that were associated with early mortality.

These exposures were then examined in conjunction with biological data, including proteins in the blood, to determine how they influenced biological aging. The resulting 25 exposures were found to impact how rapidly individuals age biologically. Some of these included factors such as maternal smoking during pregnancy, childhood growth patterns, employment status, and household income.

Interestingly, lifestyle choices such as alcohol intake and diet were not prominently included in the final analysis. This was due to challenges in consistently assessing these factors through questionnaires, which often produced varying and sometimes inconsistent results.

A Deeper Look at the Exposures that Matter

The study identified a range of exposures that can be modified to reduce the risk of premature death. Some of the key environmental exposures included childhood factors such as maternal smoking, as well as more recent lifestyle factors like employment status and household income. Crucially, 23 of these 25 exposures were modifiable, suggesting that societal and personal interventions could lead to significant health improvements across populations.

Among the exposures that were strongly linked to premature death were socio-economic factors, such as income inequality, access to healthcare, and the living conditions of individuals. These were found to be highly influential in determining life expectancy, with those in lower socio-economic strata having a higher likelihood of premature death.

Comparing the Influence of Environment and Genetics

The findings of the study clearly demonstrate that environmental factors are far more significant than genetics when it comes to determining the risk of premature death. The researchers found that environmental exposures accounted for 17% of the variation in the risk of premature death, while genetic predisposition to 22 major diseases explained less than 2% of the variation.

This has profound implications for public health policies, suggesting that efforts aimed at improving living conditions, reducing environmental pollutants, and promoting healthier lifestyles could have a much more significant impact on reducing mortality rates than focusing solely on genetic research.

Moreover, the study also revealed that while environmental factors play a central role in the development of diseases like heart disease, lung disease, and liver disease, genetics continue to hold greater importance in the development of certain conditions, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, and dementia. This nuanced view suggests that both environmental and genetic factors must be considered when assessing individual health risks.

Biological Mechanisms of Aging

The study goes a step further to explain how environmental exposures influence the biological aging process. By examining key biomarkers of aging, the researchers were able to connect environmental exposures with changes in the biological mechanisms of aging. This is one of the first studies to map the environmental exposures that influence aging on a biological level, providing critical insights into how these exposures may contribute to the development of age-related diseases and premature death.

Dr. Argentieri emphasized the importance of this research, stating that it provides valuable evidence that environmental factors are intimately linked to the aging process, potentially influencing health outcomes throughout an individual’s lifetime. “We further show that these exposures are plausibly linked to the entire aging process across adulthood,” he said, “as they are associated with key biological mechanisms of aging, future risk of age-related diseases, and mortality.”

Limitations of the Study

While the study provides compelling evidence of the importance of environmental factors in determining health outcomes, it is not without limitations. For instance, the study relied on data collected at a single time point, which means that the long-term effects of environmental exposures were not fully captured. Additionally, the study does not make definitive causal claims about what would happen if certain risk factors were modified, leaving room for further exploration of these relationships.

Furthermore, the study’s findings may not be universally applicable across different countries or populations. The nature of environmental exposures can vary widely between regions, and this could impact the generalizability of the findings.

The Takeaway: Changing Our Environment for Better Health

The key takeaway from this research is that while our genetic makeup plays a role in our overall health, it is the environment we live in that has a much stronger influence on our risk of premature death. Socio-economic factors, lifestyle choices, and living conditions are all pivotal in shaping our longevity.

Dr. Stephen Burgess, a prominent researcher from the University of Cambridge, supported the findings, stating that genetics may load the dice, but it is ultimately up to us how we play our hand. This reinforces the idea that public health interventions, such as improving access to healthcare, addressing poverty, and promoting healthier lifestyles, can have a profound impact on population health outcomes.

In conclusion, this study underscores the urgent need for a paradigm shift in public health research and policy. By focusing on environmental factors and their modification, we may be able to reduce the risk of early death and improve the overall health and well-being of populations worldwide. This approach has the potential to improve life expectancy and reduce the burden of age-related diseases, ultimately leading to healthier and longer lives for individuals everywhere.

The Arctic Island Of Resilience: 20 People, 1 Million Birds, One Ecosystem

December 16, 2024, 2:29 pm

In the unforgiving landscape of the Arctic, where the cold winds blow and the terrain is shaped by ice and rock, there lies a unique island inhabited by a small group of resilient Icelanders. This remote outpost, which houses a mere 20 people, speaks volumes of the adaptability of humans and their coexistence with each other as well as nature’s wondrous wonders. But what really makes this island unique is not the hardy human population, but rather that it acts as a lifeline to over one million birds.

This Arctic Island in the North Atlantic is where nature is the king. There are sharp cliffs, bare rock formations, and frozen plains that define the ground. The Icelanders settled here despite the harsh weather and bitter cold.

A Haven for Birds

The ecological value of the island is mostly defined by its birds, even though the sparse human population creates a dramatic contrast to the expansive vistas. One of the world’s biggest bird colonies, the island acts as a sanctuary to over a million birds, including kittiwakes, guillemots, and puffins. Birds swarm thickly on the cliffs, giving them an extraordinary appearance of life and noise during the nesting season. This makes the island look more like a hive of activity.

Alongside conserving the local eco-cycle, these birds supplement the biodiversity of the islands. Droppings facilitate rich soil that further increase veg as a natural fertilizer. Accordingly, life is therefore kept delicate as it has been enjoyed through generations supporting the Island ecosystem which is delicate.

Icelander Connection

To these 20 Arctic Island residents, coexistence and resiliency are necessary aspects of life. Living sustainably in harmony with the environment keeps the ecology of the island in perfect balance. Nature always takes precedence, whether it be the reduction of trash, the eco-friendly farming, or ethical fishing.

Despite the unforgiving winters and lack of resources, the islanders take pride in preserving the very fragile ecosystem for generations to come.

A Global Symbol of Coexistence

The Arctic island, in this respect, presents a powerful imagery of the coexistence between people and the environment. The 20 Icelanders reveal how peaceful coexistence with wildlife might preserve the ecosystems and assure human sustainability. Their dedication is crucially important, reminding us that living sustainably and harmoniously with nature is both possible and required in this world where ecological concerns are rising day by day.

This can be demonstrated with the Arctic island, how natural diversity and human resiliency coexist, proving that sustainable living is possible in the harshest environments.

Wayanad Landslide Highlights Urgent Need for Enhanced Disaster Preparedness in India

July 30, 2024, 5:24 pm

The recent landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, have once again highlighted the importance of effective disaster management in a state frequently besieged by natural calamities. As the death toll reaches 84 and rescue operations continue, the incident has sparked a critical review of Kerala’s preparedness and response mechanisms. This analysis delves into various aspects of disaster management, from climate change studies to urban planning, and assesses how Kerala can improve its resilience in the face of such devastating events.

The Wayanad landslides, triggered by a midnight cloudburst, resulted in houses being washed away and hundreds feared trapped under debris. The immediate response from the Kerala government and various agencies was commendable. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army swiftly mobilised, conducting rescue operations in the hilly areas near Meppadi. Despite the ongoing rescue efforts, the scale of devastation underscores the urgent need for a more comprehensive disaster management strategy.

Climate change studies have shown that Kerala, with its unique topography and high rainfall, is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecast heavy rains, but the intensity and impact of the cloudburst caught many by surprise. This incident underscores the need for continuous and detailed climate research to predict and prepare for such events better. Integrating these studies into disaster management plans can significantly enhance the state’s ability to respond to and mitigate the effects of natural disasters.

Kerala has made strides in emergency response, but the Wayanad landslides revealed gaps that need addressing. While early warning systems using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technology were in place, their effectiveness in preventing casualties was limited. The state has developed mobile applications like ‘KSDMA Disaster Management’ to disseminate real-time updates, yet the challenge remains in ensuring these alerts reach and are acted upon by all residents, especially in remote areas. The rapid establishment of temporary medical facilities at a mosque and madrasa in Chooralmala demonstrated the state’s ability to adapt quickly, but a more robust, pre-planned network of emergency shelters and medical centers is crucial.

Risk assessment and disaster preparedness are areas where Kerala can learn from past experiences and global best practices. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has been proactive in mapping flood-prone and landslide-prone areas, which helps in better risk assessment and land-use planning. However, the Wayanad landslides highlighted the need for more granular, localized risk assessments that consider the unique characteristics of specific regions. Regular community drills and education on disaster preparedness can also empower local populations to respond more effectively when disaster strikes.

The financial implications of such disasters are immense, necessitating a robust insurance and finance framework. Kerala has traditionally relied on state and central government funds for disaster relief, but there is a growing need to explore alternative financing mechanisms. Insurance schemes tailored to cover natural disasters can provide a financial safety net for affected individuals and businesses. Additionally, funding for disaster management needs to be prioritized in state budgets, with dedicated resources allocated for prevention, response, and recovery efforts.

Urban planning plays a critical role in mitigating the impact of natural disasters. The rapid urbanization in Kerala has often overlooked environmental considerations, leading to increased vulnerability to events like landslides and floods. The Wayanad landslides serve as a stark reminder of the importance of sustainable urban planning that incorporates disaster resilience. This includes enforcing stricter building codes, preserving natural water channels, and avoiding construction in high-risk areas. Effective urban planning can reduce the severity of disasters and facilitate quicker recovery.

Funding is a crucial aspect of disaster management that cannot be overlooked. The Kerala government’s immediate response included the announcement of state mourning and the deferment of all government programs, reflecting a quick mobilization of resources. However, long-term funding strategies are essential for building and maintaining resilient infrastructure. Tamil Nadu’s offer of Rs 5 crore and the dispatch of rescue teams is an example of inter-state cooperation that can be beneficial. The central government’s support, including that from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, emphasizes the need for coordinated funding efforts at both state and national levels.

Laxmi Gupta’s art exhibition: The Flower Always Sheds Its Fragrance

July 21, 2024, 10:33 pm

Renowned artist Laxmi Gupta is set to open her latest exhibition, “The Flower Always Sheds Its Fragrance,” at Triveni Kala Sangam on 12th July 2024 at 5:30 PM. This exhibition highlights her intricate depictions of nature and the impact of flowers on our environment and well-being.

A self-trained artist, Laxmi Gupta began showcasing her work in 2002, exploring various mediums such as pen and ink, watercolor, acrylic, and wax. Her journey from creating faces to embracing abstraction showcases her evolution as a colorist, using colors to influence mood and perception.

Nature Art

Laxmi’s love for nature inspires her work, especially evident during the COVID-19 lockdown when she dreamt of nature walks and wildflowers. Her series, “A Flower Always Sheds Its Fragrance,” symbolizes the selfless beauty of flowers. The exhibition emphasizes the importance of trees and flowering plants, reflecting her environmental commitment.

Nature Art

Running from 12th to 21st July, 11 AM to 7 PM, the exhibition invites visitors to experience Laxmi’s unique blend of media, textures, and techniques. Her art not only celebrates nature’s beauty but also highlights its crucial ecological role.

Flexwork, a sustainable solution to environment

July 2, 2024, 5:37 am

Nikhil, a resident of Ghaziabad, has to travel 100 kilometers to reach his workplace in Gurugram. Every day, he changes two metros and two buses, which has caused him asthma, and in extreme weather, it becomes a challenge for him. Especially during the winter when AQI hits hazardous levels.

“Nowadays, it’s raining in Delhi-NCR. So, sometimes I don’t get buses due to waterlogging, and I get late to my workplace, which leads to my salary deduction,” Nikhil.

Industrial production has grown in India by more than 50-fold over the past century. The Central Pollution Board (CPCB) has identified 17 categories of most polluting industries that contribute to the environment regarding suspended particulate matter, gases, and effluents. About 77 per cent of industries contribute to water pollution, 15 per cent to air pollution, and the remaining eight per cent to both air and water pollution.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) estimates up to 4.5 percent of India’s GDP could be at risk by 2030 due to the possible loss of labour hours from extreme heat and humidity.

Climate change due to rising temperatures and changing patterns of monsoon rainfall in India could cost the Indian economy 2.8 percent of its GDP and depress the living standards of nearly half of its population by 2050, the RBI’s Department of Economic and Policy Research (DEPR) says in its latest report on Currency and Finance 2022–23.

So, it’s high time we think about a solution that will not only bring accessibility and give everyone equal opportunity but also contribute to sustainability.

Companies like Stylework are a solution that provides work flexibility to work from anywhere and customises workplaces to maximize productivity. In fact, Stylework is on a mission to empower remote working across the globe and enable everyone to work flexibly.

“Flexible workspaces will empower more companies in India to relocate their employees to Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities, mitigating pollution and sustainability issues in Tier 1 cities while fostering economic growth and paradigm shifts in these regions. By adopting flexible work arrangements like remote work or flexible hours, commuting is reduced, resulting in time and money savings for employees and a decrease in carbon emissions and traffic congestion, promoting sustainability.” Sparsh Khandelwal, founder and CEO of Stylework

In the same direction, on Friday and Saturday, Stylework held their landmark event, ‘Unconventional Unions: A Flex-sync’, today at the Moksha Himalaya & Timber Trail Resort, Parwanoo. The convergence brought together the key players from the flex and media entertainment industries to discuss the future of flex workspaces, the hiking changes that are coming forth for the human side of flex, and the technological advancements aiding this sector.

Presented by The Viral Fever, the second day commenced with an interactive keynote led by Pulkit Bakshi, Head of Flex Business at a leading RE services firm. Following Nishant Dobhal, Associate Director of Brand Partnerships at TVF, sharing insights on synergy between flex-work spaces, media, and entertainment. Anil Gupta, Managing Partner of 3 Lines Ventures, and Varkey Patani, DGM A&R, Vertical Head at Saregama India Limited, contributed their expertise to fostering collaboration across industries. Aditya Aggarwal, CEO of RE/MAX India, provided a forward-looking perspective on the real estate aspects of flex workspaces.

During the panel discussion, Sparsh Khandelwal, Founder and CEO of Stylework, said “The future of flex working in India depends on multiple experiments, analysing data, and creating the infrastructure to provide solutions for flex working.” He further added, “Stylework aims to touch and discover the human side of flex by innovating, experimenting, improving on ideas, and learning from the amalgamation of these factors. We want to expand on the integration of human side of flex and change the future of workspaces in India.”

Nishant Dobhal, Associate Director Brand Partnerships at TVF, said “The world of entertainment is changing, and we are focusing on these growing trends. Our aim is to create shows that will not only be relatable to the audience but will also focus on the presence and message of the brands we are creating stories for.”.

“The Indian flexible workspace market has been growing at a steady pace over the past few years in tune with a stable demand from end-users. Many flex operators have been focusing on constantly evolving their products and location networks to further enhance their offerings,” Pulkit Bakshi, Head of Flex Business at a leading RE Services firm, elaborated on his understanding of flexible working.

The occasion was partnered with and sponsored by major affiliates from the real estate industry and the media and entertainment sectors. The official curation partner was Blue Turtle Entertainment, the strategic partner was Indo-Nippon, the event was co-powered by Innov8, the co-presenting partner was Kontor, the associate partner was Wybrid, the managed workspace partner was MySoho, the unconventional entertainment partner was Leaping Dream Films, RE network partner was RE/MAX India, the travel partner was Travamigo, the content production partner was Atza, the celebration partner was Simba, the venue partner was Moksha and Timber Trail, the community partner was Ivy Growth, the media partner was StartupNews, the social partner was WeLoveGurgaon, the snacking partner was BRB, the blending partner was BLND, and the brewing partner was Bloom Coffee Roasters.

Environment Day 2024 to focus on land restoration, drought resilience

June 3, 2024, 5:20 pm

As the world gears up to observe World Environment Day on June 5, the spotlight falls on pressing issues such as climate change, global warming, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. This year’s theme, “Land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience,” underscores the urgent need for action to address the degradation of the planet’s landmasses.

The choice of June 5 as World Environment Day holds historical significance. It commemorates the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, which took place on June 5, 1972, in Stockholm, Sweden. Since 1973, this date has been marked annually to raise awareness and mobilize action on environmental challenges.

World Environment Day 2024 Theme

The theme for World Environment Day 2024 highlights the critical issues of land degradation, desertification, and drought, as outlined by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. According to the Convention, up to 40% of the Earth’s land is degraded, directly impacting half of the global population. Alarmingly, the number and duration of droughts have increased by 29% since 2000, with projections indicating that droughts could affect over three-quarters of the world’s population by 2050.

In light of these challenges, urgent action is needed to restore degraded lands, combat desertification, and enhance resilience to droughts. Promoting sustainable land management practices, reforestation initiatives, and community-based conservation efforts are crucial in addressing these pressing environmental issues.

Reminder of Man-Nature ecosystem

World Environment Day serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world. It calls upon individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to unite to safeguard the planet for future generations. As the world observes this special day, we must commit to collective action to protect and preserve our precious natural resources.

Investopia 2024: Innovation in AI, Fintech, Healthcare, Environment

April 28, 2024, 5:23 pm

Investopia 2024 recently hosted a comprehensive strategic discussion involving over 105 speakers from diverse backgrounds, including ministers, policymakers, investors, economic experts, and entrepreneurs worldwide. The summit aimed to delineate a clear roadmap for fostering sustainable economic growth on both regional and global scales, addressing pressing challenges while identifying investment opportunities.

Focus on Emerging Sectors:

Speakers at the summit emphasized the significance of increasing investments in emerging and sustainable economic sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, clean energy, infrastructure, and more. These sectors represent the future of the economy and play a crucial role in transitioning towards more competitive and adaptable economic models.

Role of AI in Economic Development:

Experts highlighted the indispensable role of AI in expediting investments across various economic sectors. AI applications not only aid in making informed investment decisions but also contribute to overcoming challenges hindering economic development, especially in emerging markets. The emergence of Generative AI was also discussed as a potential game-changer in information data analysis and risk assessment.

Opportunities in Fintech:

Fintech, encompassing diverse fields such as payment services, microfinance, blockchain, and cryptocurrencies, emerged as a highly promising sector within the investment landscape. Speakers noted the convenience and flexibility of investing in fintech, highlighting its considerable growth and expanding investor interest.

Sports Investment and Sustainability:

Discussions also delved into sports investment, emphasizing sustainability and financial stability as key factors for success. The potential of emerging markets in sports activities was highlighted, stressing collaboration between government and private sectors to promote growth and innovation in the sports industry.

UAE’s Role and Commitment:

The UAE’s proactive approach towards innovation, sustainable development, and AI was commended during the sessions. The country’s initiatives in clean energy, digital transformation, and fostering an environment conducive to innovation were highlighted as exemplary models for future economic development.

Addressing Global Challenges:

Speakers underscored the need for urgent action on climate change, environmental sustainability, and developing strategies adaptable to geopolitical variables. They also emphasized the importance of investing in human talent and fostering an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Investopia 2024 provided a platform for meaningful discussions on shaping the future of sustainable economic growth, highlighting investment opportunities, technological advancements, and the crucial role of strategic partnerships and policies in navigating global economic challenges.

Israel Envoy Joins Plantation Drive in Delhi on World Earth Day

April 22, 2024, 2:23 pm

To commemorate World Earth Day, Naor Gilon, Ambassador of Israel to India, joined a unique tree-planting initiative at a public school situated in the lively Moti Bagh neighborhood of the nation’s capital earlier this week.

The event’s objective was to raise environmental consciousness and advocate for sustainability by planting trees.

Ambassador Gilon, expressing his delight at being part of the initiative, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “We are happy to be here, contributing to the greening of Delhi. It’s crucial for us to join hands in efforts to preserve our planet for future generations.”

The plantation drive saw the planting of 600 trees within the school grounds. What distinguishes this initiative is the utilization of a unique technique, as noted by Ambassador Gilon, which facilitates the close and rapid growth of trees, thereby maximizing their environmental impact.

Speaking on the innovative approach, Ambassador Gilon elaborated, “There is a unique technique which helps them to grow very closely and fast. This method not only accelerates the growth of the trees but also ensures their optimal utilisation in combating environmental challenges.”

The event saw involvement from a range of stakeholders, such as students, teachers, and local authorities, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to effectively tackle environmental issues.

Moreover, beyond representing a dedication to environmental preservation, the tree planting initiative also stands as evidence of the robust bilateral relations between India and Israel, emphasizing their shared commitment to sustainable development.

As the global community marks World Earth Day, endeavors such as this highlight the significance of collective action in safeguarding the Earth and nurturing a more environmentally sustainable future for everyone.

Following the successful culmination of the plantation drive, participants voiced optimism regarding the positive influence the newly planted trees will exert on the local environment, reaffirming their dedication to ongoing environmental stewardship.

Thames Water £1.1 billion plan for environmental improvements

April 22, 2024, 2:18 pm

Thames Water, a major water supplier serving a quarter of the UK’s population, wants to invest an extra £1.1 billion in environmental projects over the next five years. This is part of their plan to deal with their big debt and environmental issues like sewage leaks.

Their financial problems have made people worried that the government might take over the company because of its £16 billion debt. Thames Water is trying to balance fixing sewage problems, making money for investors, and not making customers pay too much.

Their new plan focuses on cleaning up without making customer bills go up more than the 40% increase they planned for 2025-2030. This is important for getting approval from regulators like Ofwat, who check that customers get good value and investors get their money’s worth.

Thames Water’s plan comes at a time when the UK’s water industry is being watched closely for sewage problems and money management. CEO Chris Weston is talking to regulators and investors to figure out the best plan.

They also talked about putting another £1.9 billion into the business, but that would mean customers paying £19 more on their bills. They have until June 12 to get Ofwat’s approval for their plan, which is a bigger bill increase compared to other water companies in Britain.

As Thames Water works through these challenges, people are paying close attention to see how they balance fixing problems, making money, and keeping customers happy.

Goa CM appeals to people to have a pollution-free Diwali

October 23, 2022, 6:47 pm

Dr. Pramod Panaji Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa has appealed to people to think about the environment that gets affected due to the excessive bursting of fireworksand have a pollution free diwali.

Dr Sawant extended greetings to the people and wished that the festivity will spread peace, joy, and prosperity in the State. The CM said, “Diwali symbolizes the victory of righteousness over evil, brightness over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and truth over falsity.”

The day’s illumination symbolises the pleasure and happiness of Lord Rama’s homecoming to Ayodhya following his victory over Ravana. All are motivated to transition from darkness to light by this celebration of light, he continued.

The Chief Minister appealed to the citizens to have a safe and eco-friendly Diwali. “This year, let us think about our environment that gets affected due to the excessive bursting of fireworks. Let us have a pollution-free Diwali celebration,” the CM said.

He further said, “Diwali is the festival of sharing happiness and strengthening brotherhood relationship in the State. This Diwali let’s take charge and reach out to the underprivileged people. Let us adopt poor and deprived ones by sharing the happiness of Diwali with them.

95 cities show improvement in air quality: NCAP

September 8, 2022, 10:57 am

As compared to the baseline of 2017, in 2021-22, 95 out of 131 cities covered by the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) showed an improvement in air quality, with Varanasi recording the highest 53% decrease in PM 10 concentrations compared to the baseline of 2017.

Varanasi’s annual PM 10 concentration was 244 micrograms per cubic metre in 2017. In 2021-22, it will be 114 micrograms per cubic metre. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality in Delhi has also improved. In 2017, the annual average concentration of PM 10 in Delhi was 241 micrograms per cubic metre. It has dropped by 18.6% to 196 micrograms per cubic metre in 2021-22.

“The good thing is that we are seeing an improvement in air pollution levels in the Indo-Gangetic Plains cities which had very high concentrations of air pollution. Varanasi has mainly focused on dust and waste management in the past two years. Delhi is also improving. Cities in Punjab have improved marginally,” said a Union environment ministry official on the occasion of International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies on Wednesday.

According to the official, 27 NCAP cities, including Chennai, meet the annual PM 10 air quality standard of 60 micrograms per cubic metre.

Officials cautioned that the annual pollution levels in these cities must be monitored for a few years to ensure that the improvements are sustainable.

As per the booklet released by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on best practices for air pollution control in eight cities, including Bengaluru and Pune, Varanasi has begun door-to-door waste collection in 40 wards. Waste segregation has also been implemented in the city, as has mechanical sweeping on major roads. A waste-to-energy plant with a capacity of 5 tonnes per day has been installed. There were also thirty-one construction and demolition waste collection centres that were fully operational.

According to Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director of the Centre for Science and Environment, NCAP set a national level target of 20-30% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 2024 from the 2017 base year. She emphasised that the CPCB’s performance assessment of NCAP cities for disbursement of performance-linked funds has only taken into account PM10 data, which is primarily related to coarse dust particles. “Because monitoring of PM2.5, the much smaller and more harmful particles, is limited, a uniform assessment of cities based on PM2.5 reduction has not been considered for performance assessment.”

According to Roychowdhury, PM 10 has become the focus of action under NCAP, which is why cities are trying to focus on road dust, sprinkling, and other measures, resulting in a bias in mitigation strategy and diverting attention away from combustion sources. “PM 2.5 must be the primary focus of NCAP.”

The Centre launched NCAP in 2019 with the goal of reducing PM 10 and PM 2.5 pollution by 20 to 30% over 2017 levels by 2024 in cities that have failed to meet air quality standards for five years in a row.