Recent research has shed light on the sources of air pollution in Delhi, particularly focusing on the roles of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM) during extreme smog events. Conducted by A. Awasthi and his team at the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, the study utilized a comprehensive dataset from 2022, analyzing 111 VOCs and PM levels through a positive matrix factorization model.
Delhi’s air quality deteriorates significantly during the post-monsoon season, leading to health concerns and environmental challenges. The study reveals that biomass burning, particularly from fresh paddy residue and residential waste, is a major contributor to PM levels, accounting for 25% and 23% of PM10 and PM2.5, respectively. Heavy-duty vehicles fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG) also contribute notably to particulate pollution.
On the VOC front, the findings indicate that petrol four-wheelers are the largest contributors, responsible for 20% of VOC emissions and significantly influencing ozone and secondary organic aerosol formation. This highlights the critical role of transportation in air quality, alongside industrial emissions and solid-fuel-based cooking practices.
Awasthi noted, “The major source of PM pollution was regional biomass burning, while traffic and industries governed VOC emissions and secondary-pollutant formation.” This distinction is crucial for policymakers and businesses looking to address air quality issues effectively.
The implications of this research extend beyond environmental science. For the energy sector, it presents commercial opportunities in promoting cleaner technologies and fuels. The findings suggest a need for innovations in transportation, such as electric vehicles or improved public transit systems, to reduce VOC emissions. Additionally, the study calls attention to the importance of sustainable agricultural practices to minimize biomass burning, which could lead to new markets for alternative energy sources derived from agricultural waste.
This study represents a significant advancement in understanding the complex interactions of pollution sources in urban environments. As Awasthi’s research is published in “Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics,” it underscores the potential for similar methodologies to be applied in other polluted cities around the world, opening avenues for targeted interventions and cleaner energy solutions.
