Efforts to address pollution in India involve a combination of regulatory measures, technological advancements, waste management strategies, and public awareness campaigns. Here are top 10 pollutants of India, in no particular order.
- Coal: Coal-based power plants are a significant source of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in India. The combustion of coal releases pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter.
- Plastics: Improper disposal and inadequate waste management of plastics contribute to pollution in urban and rural areas. Plastic waste, including single-use items, poses environmental risks and challenges in recycling.
- Agricultural Chemicals: The use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture can lead to soil and water pollution. Runoff from agricultural fields containing chemicals can impact water quality.
- Industrial Effluents: Discharge of untreated or inadequately treated industrial effluents into water bodies is a significant source of water pollution. Industries such as textiles, tanneries, and chemicals are known contributors.
- Electronic Waste (E-Waste): Inappropriate disposal and informal recycling practices of electronic waste contribute to soil and water contamination. E-waste contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and brominated flame retardants.
- Vehicular Emissions: Exhaust emissions from vehicles, especially in densely populated urban areas, contribute to air pollution. The combustion of fossil fuels in vehicles releases pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.
- Manufacturing: Manufacturing activities as a whole contribute largely to all kinds of pollution. In the race to build big businesses during the industrial revolution, environmental norms were loosened leading to heavy climate costs today. Activities like ESG are now helpful in curbing or managing these pollutants.
- Construction and Demolition Waste: Improper disposal of construction and demolition waste can lead to soil and water pollution. The presence of hazardous materials in construction debris poses environmental risks.
- Mining Activities: Mining operations, especially in coal and mineral extraction, can result in environmental degradation, soil erosion, and water pollution. Improper waste disposal practices exacerbate these issues.
- Oil and Petrochemicals: Oil spills, leaks, and discharges from oil and petrochemical facilities can lead to water pollution. The extraction, refining, and transportation of oil contribute to environmental risks.