National Pollution Prevention Day
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November 29, 2021
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On December 2, India commemorates National Pollution Prevention Day in memory of those who died in the Bhopal gas disaster. The Bhopal gas tragedy is regarded as one of the worst industrial pollution disasters in history, when the deadly gas methyl isocyanides (MIC) leaked out of the Union Carbide plant on the night of December 2nd in 1984. The effects of that disaster are felt even now after more than 35 years.
The key objectives of the National Pollution Control Day is to educate the people about the management and control of industrial disasters, as well as the prevention of water, air, and soil pollution due to industrial processes or manual negligence.
Facts about pollution
- The National Health Portal of India data reveals that around 7 million people die every year due to air pollution
- Nine out of ten people globally do not have access to clean and safe air.
- According to the World Health Organization, 11 of the 12 most polluted cities in the world have high concentrations of particulate matter in the air.
- In India, approximately 70% of surface water is unfit for human consumption.
- Noise pollution can result in irreversible hearing loss, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension.
- A robust push towards cleaner and greener technology in the fields of mobility, electricity generation and consumption, water supply, industrial manufacturing, etc. is a major step in combating pollution.
Air Pollution
Reality:
India's air quality has deteriorated to the level of 'severe’. Just look at the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels or simply look out your window during rush hour. It's we, as individuals, who are now responsible for preventing air pollution.
Few prevention tips
- Smoking should be avoided indoors.
- To clean your home, use natural cleaners instead of aerosols.
- Make use of air purifiers, air ventilators, especially when cooking.
- Take public transportation or share rides as an alternative to private vehicles.
- Promote use of renewable energy.
- Enhance plantation such as urban forest and green roofs for reducing pollution in urban areas.
Water pollution
Reality:
In India, pollution and poverty coexist. The majority of impoverished communities lack access to clean water. Water pollution is also to blame for the destruction of the natural habitats of marine animals and plants.
Few prevention tips:
Water pollution can be avoided by doing the following:
- Prevent disposing litter in the toilet.
- Detergents should be used sparingly.
- Avoid throwing litter into rivers, lakes, and ponds.
- Conserve water as much as possible - when not in use, such as while brushing your teeth, turn off the water supply.
Noise Pollution
Reality:
Noise pollution is something that cannot be avoided, but must be controlled. It can lead to a variety of health issues in the long run. Everyone should do their part to help reduce this.
Few prevention tips:
- Avoid exploding explosives (like big sounding firecrackers).
- Unless absolutely necessary, do not use the horn.
- Always play music or musical instruments within a desirable limit.
- Avoid having DJs play at public events.
- Use noise-cancelling headphones
- Plant more trees in your neighborhood.
- Utilize wall-to-wall carpeting.
Pollution increases health burdens and thus is a major contributor to harm for both humans and nature. By choosing an eco-friendly lifestyle, we can all avoid pollution related health risks.