Small With Smarts – On Air Pollution

Source– The post is based on the article “Small With Smarts” published in “The Times of India” on 14th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Science and Technology

Relevance: Issues related to research and innovation

News– The article explains the recent developments regarding reducing the air pollution in Delhi.

What are some recent developments regarding the tackling of air pollution in NCR?

Around half of Punjab’s paddy cultivation area has been sown with the short-duration variety, PR-126. Punjab Agricultural University released it in 2017. It matures early and produces less stubble. This paddy variety will lower air pollution.

A startup mentored by IIT-Delhi has tested a device that reduced PM2. 5 and PM10 in its reach area by up to 86% within two hours in the pilot project.

This device has been validated by the atmospheric science department of IIT-Delhi. It ionises the air to make particle pollutants heavier and removes them from the air. It holds a low-cost promise for traffic junctions and other hotspots.

What can be inferred by these developments on air pollutants?

There exists a vast world beyond prominent research and development initiatives.

Startups, equipped with proper access to funding and guidance, can provide cost-effective solutions across diverse sectors.

Recognizing that not every entrepreneurial idea proves successful in practical applications is crucial. Such outcomes are inherent to the process of innovation. They are entirely acceptable as long as peer review procedures continue to be efficient and rigorous.