pollution Archives - Disasters News

Dec52024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Delhi Air Quality Improves to Moderate After 50 Days but ‘Poor’ Forecast Looms

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Environment

New Delhi: After enduring over 50 days of high pollution Delhi experienced a significant improvement in air quality on Wednesday with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 178, categorised as 'moderate.' However the Air Quality Early Warning System predicts a decline to the 'poor' category by Friday. Strong surface winds helped disperse pollutants, offering much-needed relief. Visibility improved and the city's skies appeared clearer, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Out of 38 air quality monitoring stations, most recorded 'moderate' air quality, while eight registered 'poor' and Sri Aurobindo Marg reported 'very poor.' Current Weather Conditions: AQI: 178 ('moderate') on Wednesday, down from 268 on Tuesday. Temperature: Maximum of 28°C (3°C above ...

Nov122024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Kenyan Lesser Mealworm Larvae Show Promise in Plastic Degradation, Offering New Hope for Pollution Control

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Environment, Learning & Developments

In an innovative approach to tackling plastic pollution, a team of scientists from the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology has discovered that Kenyan lesser mealworm larvae can consume polystyrene a common yet hard-to-recycle plastic. This is the first time an insect species native to Africa has been found to break down polystyrene, adding it to a small but promising group of plastic-degrading insects. How Do They Do It? Polystyrene, often known as Styrofoam, is widely used in packaging and is notoriously difficult to recycle due to its durable nature. While traditional recycling methods are costly and polluting, the Kenyan lesser mealworm has a unique ability to chew through polystyrene with the help of gut bacteria that aid in breaking down the plastic. These larv...

Aug282024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Study Reveals Air Pollution in Indian Districts Raises Mortality Risk, Doubling Death Rate for Newborns and Young Children

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Environment

A recent study reveals a stark increase in mortality risks across all age groups in Indian districts where air pollution exceeds national standards, with newborns facing an 86% higher death risk and children under five facing a 100-120% increased risk. Conducted by researchers including those at the International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, the study examined fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution across over 700 districts using data from the National Family and Health Survey (fifth round) and the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). The study highlights that in households without a separate kitchen, the risk of death is notably higher among newborns and adults. Specifically, the mortality risk for newborns and children under five in districts with PM2.5 leve...

Jun172024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Crores of Premature Deaths Linked to Air Pollution in India Over Four Decades

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Environment

A comprehensive study led by researchers from Singapore's Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has revealed that air pollution from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been linked to approximately 2.61 crore premature deaths in India between 1980 and 2020. This makes it one of the most extensive studies on air quality and climate, utilizing 40 years of data to assess the health impacts of PM2.5. According to the study, the average life expectancy in India has been significantly reduced due to conditions caused by PM2.5 pollution, such as strokes, heart and lung diseases, and cancer. The study also noted that weather patterns have exacerbated the impact of pollution, increasing the death toll by 14%. “Asia was estimated to have the largest number of PM2.5-attributable premature deat...

Jun22024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Study Finds Severe Light Pollution at Major Astronomical Observatories Worldwide

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Space

A new study conducted by researchers from Italy, Chile, and Galicia reveals that light pollution is significantly affecting the skies above many of the world's major astronomical observatories. The study, published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, emphasizes the urgent need for measures to reduce artificial light contamination to preserve the efficacy of ground-based astronomy. The research team examined light pollution levels at nearly 50 observatories globally, including both large professional facilities and smaller amateur observatories. Utilizing a model that simulates light propagation in the Earth's atmosphere and incorporating night-time satellite data, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of light pollution at these sites. Tra...

Jan252024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Delhi’s Air Quality Crosses 400-mark, Centre Monitors Situation Before Imposing Stricter Measures

Breaking News, Environment

January 25, 2024 Delhi's average air quality index (AQI) breached the 400-mark on Wednesday, signaling very poor air quality, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The AQI categories range from 'good' (0-100) to 'severe' (400-500 or above). While the very poor air quality prevailed, the Centre decided to monitor the situation for a day or more before considering stricter measures under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reviewed the current air quality scenario, meteorological conditions, and forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Based on the projections that Delhi's average AQI is likely to improve, the sub-com...