How can India’s air be saved?
It’s no secret that India has one of the worst air qualities in the world. But there are many ways that its air quality can be saved actually.
In this Ted Talk, Arunabha Ghosh is a social entrepreneur and now an outspoken environmentalist.
Ghosh proposes a five-step plan that India can take toward cleaner and safer air.
At the start, I find Ghosh’s startling fact that 1 in 2 people in India do not breathe air that meets air quality standards, and air pollution accounts for more deaths than individuals perish from Diarrhoea, Tuberculosis, or HIV or Malaria to be more than profound. Therefore, air pollution is no joke and has to be dealt with.
Here is my analysis of his plan to save India’s Air, which I’m very much supportive of:
Establish a robust air quality monitoring system: Ghosh’s focus on accurate, real-time data is crucial because understanding the extent of the problem is the first step toward solving it. A well-monitored system allows for targeted actions and accountability, which is a strong foundation for effectively addressing pollution.
Establish a robust air quality monitoring system: Ghosh is absolutely right that we need accurate, real-time data to truly understand the scale of the air pollution problem. Without reliable monitoring, it’s impossible to create meaningful policies or hold anyone accountable, so this step is a great starting point.
Set enforceable emission standards: Stricter rules for industries and vehicles are long overdue, and Ghosh's emphasis on enforcement makes sense. If people know there are serious consequences for polluting, they’ll be more likely to adopt cleaner practices, which is exactly what India needs.
Promote clean energy alternatives: Transitioning to renewable energy like solar and wind is such a smart move—it doesn’t just reduce pollution, but it also helps address climate change. I fully support this idea, as it’s a solution that benefits both the environment and India’s energy future.
Implement efficient waste management practices: Managing waste better, especially stopping practices like open burning, could make a huge difference in air quality. Ghosh’s idea of investing in waste-to-energy technologies feels like a forward-thinking approach that could create lasting change.
Foster public participation and awareness: Engaging the public is such an important piece of the puzzle. I love that Ghosh focuses on this because when people are informed and involved, they’re more likely to push for change and take action in their own lives.
Overall, Ghosh’s plan is practical, well-rounded, and exactly what’s needed to tackle India’s air pollution crisis. It’s a set of solutions that not only addresses the problem now but also sets the stage for a healthier, more sustainable future.
