Introduction:
In recent years, stubble burning has become a notorious environmental issue. It affects not only the northern states of India but also makes its threatening presence felt in the southern regions. While the majority of media attention has been directed towards the northern states during the post-harvest season, the southern states are also very much affected by stubble burning. It is crucial to shed light on how this agricultural practice is silently affecting the air quality of the southern states as well.
As the impact of stubble burning on air quality continues to affect India, hope emerges in the form of 2G ethanol production. This innovative approach tackles the environmental issues caused by stubble burning. Also, it helps transform agricultural waste into a valuable and sustainable source of clean fuel.
Stubble Burning & Its Impact on Air Quality:
Stubble burning is a common practice to clear fields. After harvest, that releases harmful pollutants into the air, contributing to air quality degradation, respiratory issues, and environmental deterioration. Recognizing the urgent need for alternatives, the focus has shifted towards 2G ethanol production as a promising solution for the impact of stubble burning.
The combustion of crop residue releases a cocktail of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM). They are carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants, once formed in the atmosphere, can travel long distances. Thus affecting the air quality in regions far removed from the burning sites.
Southern States in the Grip:
Southern India, renowned for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, is not immune to the consequences of stubble burning. The practice, mainly associated with the northern states, extends its damaging influence beyond regional boundaries. The winds, carrying suspended particulate matter and pollutants, traverse vast distances, affecting the air quality in southern states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
A recent study published in Elsevier’s Science of the Total Environment journal revealed the stubble burning impacts. In north India, the impact of stubble burning significantly contributed to the poor air quality in Mumbai during the previous winter season. Led by Gufran Beig, chair professor at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, the study highlighted how theLa Nina phenomenon over three consecutive years disrupted wind patterns in 2022–23. Thus causing northerly winds carrying pollutants from stubble burning to reach the city. The study also pointed out prolonged periods of calm winds in Mumbai. It allowed these pollutants to linger in the region, exacerbating the existing sources of pollution.
Satellite data and air quality monitoring stations reveal a sharp reality: the southern states are struggling with elevated levels of air pollution after the harvest season. The fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, poses significant health risks as it can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, causing respiratory issues and long-term health complications.
From October 2022 to January 2023, cities in northern India witnessed a positive change in their air quality. During this period, Ghaziabad experienced a significant reduction of 33% in PM2.5 levels, followed by Rohtak with a decrease of 30%, Noida with 28%, and Delhi with 10%. However, the situation was different for cities located in the peninsular region and along the west coast. These cities faced an increase in pollution, with Mumbai witnessing a spike of 30% in PM2.5 levels, Coimbatore with 28%, Bengaluru with 20%, and Chennai with 12%. This scenario was particularly unusual because northern cities typically face pollution due to stubble burning, while coastal cities benefit from the presence of the ocean and winds.
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