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New Emission Standards Ignore Invisible Air Polluters
7 Mar
Summary
- New rules target industrial particulate emissions, ignoring secondary pollutants.
- Secondary particles form in atmosphere from gases, contributing significantly to PM2.5.
- Experts urge control of precursor gases like SO2 and NOx for effective pollution reduction.
Stricter particulate emission standards for industries across Delhi-NCR have been proposed by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). These new limits, set at 50 mg/Nm³, are scheduled to take effect for large and medium industries by August 1 and for other industries by October 1. The directive targets 17 highly polluting industrial sectors, including those operating boilers and furnaces.
However, a significant portion of Delhi-NCR's air pollution stems from particles that form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions, rather than direct industrial emissions. These secondary particles, such as ammonium sulphate and ammonium nitrate, are formed from gases like sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Analysis indicates that secondary particulate matter constitutes a substantial share of PM2.5 pollution, estimated at 27% in winter and 17% in summer. Experts caution that without a parallel reduction in precursor gas emissions, the new particulate standards alone may not lead to sustained air quality improvements.
Research from Haryana highlights the scale of secondary pollution, with these pollutants contributing nearly one-third of PM2.5 in many districts. The CAQM has directed governments in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi to ensure compliance with the revised norms and conduct awareness campaigns.
