air pollution from motor vehicles - management of environment report

7/30/2019 Air Pollution From Motor Vehicles - Management of Environment Report

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Management of Environment

Air Pollution from Motor VehiclesManagement of Environment - Essay

JAMNALAL BAJAJ INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT STUDIES

(University of Mumbai)

MFM IIIrd Year Semester VI

Submitted by

Shailesh Gaikar (Roll No. 28)

Darshan Gangolli (Roll No. 32)

Tanmay Nayak (Roll No. 61)

Raj Mehta (Roll No. 54)

Sachin Holmukhe (Roll No. 40)

Naveed Manna (Roll No. 53)

Homyar Patel (Roll No. 68)

Manasee Patil (Roll No. 60)

Gopal Banker (Roll No. 04)


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Air pollution in India is a serious issue with the major sources being fuel wood and biomass burning, fuel adulteration,

vehicle emission and traffic congestion. India has a low per capita emission of greenhouse gases but the country as a

whole is the third largest after China and the United States. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act waspassed in 1981 to regulate air pollution and there have been some measurable improvements. However, the 2012

Environmental Performance Index ranked India as having the poorest relative air quality out of 132 countries. The

purpose of this document is to reconcile the synopsis of Air Pollution from Motor Vehicles with the essay

requirements. By the end of the document, the reader should be in a position to understand the causes and effects of air

pollution in India caused by motor vehicles.


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Contents

1 Air Pollution ............................................................................................ 4

1.1 What is Air Pollution and how does it happen? ................................................................ 4

1.2 Types of Air Pollutants ................................................................................................... 6

1.3 Effects of Air Pollutants .................................................................................................. 72 Motor Vehicle Emissions ........................................................................... 10

2.1 Technical Measures for controlling vehicular pollution - Indian Perspective .....................10

2.2 Major Pollutants from Cars ............................................................................................11

2.3 Indian Emission Standards ............................................................................................13

3 Current Conditions in India ........................................................................ 17

3.1 Air Quality Management Structure in India ....................................................................17

3.2 Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 .......................................................17

3.3 Technologies available and suppliers - Vehicular Pollution Abatements ...........................194 Measures taken to control Air Pollution in India .............................................. 22

5 Case Studies ............................................................................................ 23

5.1 Air Pollution and Management in Delhi, India ...............................................................23

5.2 Air Pollution and Management in Hong Kong................................................................25

6 Conclusion / Recommendations .................................................................. 27

Bibliography .................................................................................................. 28


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1 Air Pollution

1.1 What is Air Pollution and how does it happen?

Air is the ocean we breathe. Air supplies us with oxygen which is essential for our bodies to live. Air is 99.9%

nitrogen, oxygen, water vapor and inert gases. Human activities can release substances into the air, some of which

can cause problems for humans, plants, and animals.

There are several main types of pollution and well-known effects of pollution which are commonly discussed. These

include smog, acid rain, the greenhouse effect, and "holes" in the ozone layer. Each of these problems has serious

implications for our health and well-being as well as for the whole environment.

One type of air pollution is the release of particles into the air from burning fuel for energy. Diesel smoke is a goodexample of this particulate matter. The particles are very small pieces of matter measuring about 2.5 microns or

about .0001 inches. This type of pollution is sometimes referred to as "black carbon" pollution. The exhaust from

burning fuels in automobiles, homes, and industries is a major source of pollution in the air. Even the burning of

wood and charcoal in fireplaces and industry places can release significant quantities of soot into the air.

Another type of pollution is the release of noxious gases, such as sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides,

and chemical vapors. These can take part in further chemical reactions once they are in the atmosphere, forming

smog and acid rain.


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1.2 Types of Air Pollutants

Different types of outdoor air pollutants

Air pollution is changeable and there are many different air pollutants contributing to it. Once pollutants are released

into the air, they interact with each other and the environment in complex ways depending on temperature,humidity and other environmental conditions.

Pollutants can be categorized into two groups:

a) Primary pollutants which come from human processes

b) Secondary pollutants which are from the interaction of primary pollutants with the atmosphere

Sources of Air Pollutants

Human activities are the main sources of air pollution. Using energy in our homes, industrial activities, transport and

farming are the main actions that have been directly linked to emissions.

Traffic pollutants: Gases and particles released from cars and other vehicles include a complex mixture of

many pollutants. The erosion of material on the roads and the wear of tyres and brakes can also producepollutants.

Stationary combustion sources: The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil at both power plants and in

the home, is also a major source of air pollution.

Other sources: Forest fires and the burning of living, or recently living organisms (biomass), represent a

further major source of emissions.

Outdoor air pollutants

Ozone and particulate matter - The main pollutants scientists focus their research on are ozone and

particulate matter as they present the most widespread health threats.

Ozone - Ozone is an odourless, colourless gas that occurs both in the Earths upper atmosphere

(stratosphere) and at ground level (troposphere). The ozone found in the troposphere is a major publichealth concern. Concentrations of ozone are higher in the summer and in the afternoon, as it is formed

during sunlight. The highest daily peaks typically occur during hot, dry periods in the summer.

Particulate matter - Particulate matter is a mixture of solid bits and liquid droplets floating in the air. It

includes particles from: dust, soil, materials from roads, farming, mining, windstorms or volcanoes, stone

quarries, as well as sea salts, pollen, mould, spores and other biological material.

Fine particles are a sub-group of particulate matter and come from the direct emissions from combustion

processes such as gasoline and diesel use in vehicles, wood burning, coal burning for power stations and


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industrial processes such as smelters, cement, plants paper mills and steel mills.

All types of particulate matter are linked with ill health.

1.3 Effects of Air Pollutants

Air pollution is a real public health and environmental problem that can lead toamong other thingsglobal

warming, acid rain, and the deterioration of the ozone layer. This chart names some common pollutants, their

sources, and their effect on the environment.

Pollutant Sources Effects

Ozone. A gas that can be found in two

places. Near the ground (the

troposphere), it is a major part of

smog. The harmful ozone in the lower

atmosphere should not be confused

with the protective layer of ozone in

the upper atmosphere (stratosphere),

which screens out harmful ultraviolet

rays.

Ozone is not created directly, but is

formed when nitrogen oxides and

volatile organic compounds mix in

sunlight. That is why ozone is mostly

found in the summer. Nitrogen oxides

come from burning gasoline, coal, or

other fossil fuels. There are many

types of volatile organic compounds,

and they come from sources ranging

from factories to trees.

Ozone near the ground can cause a

number of health problems. Ozone

can lead to more frequent asthma

attacks in people who have asthma

and can cause sore throats, coughs,

and breathing difficulty. It may even

lead to premature death. Ozone can

also hurt plants and crops.

Carbon monoxide. A gas that comes

from the burning of fossil fuels, mostly

in cars. It cannot be seen or smelled.

Carbon monoxide is released when

engines burn fossil fuels. Emissions

are higher when engines are not

tuned properly, and when fuel is not

completely burned. Cars emit a lot of

the carbon monoxide found

outdoors. Furnaces and heaters in thehome can emit high concentrations of

carbon monoxide, too, if they are not

properly maintained.

Carbon monoxide makes it hard for

body parts to get the oxygen they

need to run correctly. Exposure to

carbon monoxide makes people feel

dizzy and tired and gives them

headaches. In high concentrations it

is fatal. Elderly people with heartdisease are hospitalized more often

when they are exposed to higher

amounts of carbon monoxide.

Nitrogen dioxide. A reddish-brown gas

that comes from the burning of fossil

fuels. It has a strong smell at high

levels.

Nitrogen dioxide mostly comes from

power plants and cars. Nitrogen

dioxide is formed in two wayswhen

nitrogen in the fuel is burned, or

when nitrogen in the air reacts with

High levels of nitrogen dioxide

exposure can give people coughs and

can make them feel short of breath.

People who are exposed to nitrogen

dioxide for a long time have a higher


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oxygen at very high temperatures.

Nitrogen dioxide can also react in the

atmosphere to form ozone, acid rain,

and particles.

chance of getting respiratory

infections. Nitrogen dioxide reacts in

the atmosphere to form acid rain,

which can harm plants and animals.

Particulate matter. Solid or liquid

matter that is suspended in the air. To

remain in the air, particles usually

must be less than 0.1-mm wide andcan be as small as 0.00005 mm.

Particulate matter can be divided into

two typescoarse particles and fine

particles. Coarse particles are formed

from sources like road dust, seaspray, and construction. Fine particles

are formed when fuel is burned in

automobiles and power plants.

Particulate matter that is small

enough can enter the lungs and

cause health problems. Some of

these problems include morefrequent asthma attacks, respiratory

problems, and premature death.

Sulfur dioxide. A corrosive gas that

cannot be seen or smelled at low

levels but can have a rotten egg

smell at high levels.

Sulfur dioxide mostly comes from the

burning of coal or oil in power plants.

It also comes from factories that

make chemicals, paper, or fuel. Like

nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide reacts

in the atmosphere to form acid rain

and particles.

Sulfur dioxide exposure can affect

people who have asthma or

emphysema by making it more

difficult for them to breathe. It can

also irritate people's eyes, noses, and

throats. Sulfur dioxide can harm

trees and crops, damage buildings,

and make it harder for people to see

long distances.Lead. A blue-gray metal that is very

toxic and is found in a number of

forms and locations.

Outside, lead comes from cars in

areas where unleaded gasoline is not

used. Lead can also come from power

plants and other industrial sources.

Inside, lead paint is an important

source of lead, especially in houses

where paint is peeling. Lead in old

pipes can also be a source of lead in

drinking water.

High amounts of lead can be

dangerous for small children and can

lead to lower IQs and kidney

problems. For adults, exposure to

lead can increase the chance of

having heart attacks or strokes.

Toxic air pollutants. A large number of

chemicals that are known or suspected

to cause cancer. Some importantpollutants in this category include

arsenic, asbestos, benzene, and dioxin.

Each toxic air pollutant comes from a

slightly different source, but many

are created in chemical plants or areemitted when fossil fuels are burned.

Some toxic air pollutants, like

asbestos and formaldehyde, can be

found in building materials and can

lead to indoor air problems. Many

toxic air pollutants can also enter the

food and water supplies.

Toxic air pollutants can cause cancer.

Some toxic air pollutants can also

cause birth defects. Other effectsdepend on the pollutant, but can

include skin and eye irritation and

breathing problems.

Stratospheric ozone depleters.

Chemicals that can destroy the ozone

in the stratosphere. These chemicals

include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs),

halons, and other compounds thatinclude chlorine or bromine.

CFCs are used in air conditioners and

refrigerators, since they work well as

coolants. They can also be found in

aerosol cans and fire extinguishers.

Other stratospheric ozone depletersare used as solvents in industry.

If the ozone in the stratosphere is

destroyed, people are exposed to

more radiation from the sun

(ultraviolet radiation). This can lead

to skin cancer and eye problems.Higher ultraviolet radiation can also

harm plants and animals.

Greenhouse gases. Gases that stay in

the air for a long time and warm up

the planet by trapping sunlight. This is

called the greenhouse effect

because the gases act like the glass in a

greenhouse. Some of the important

Carbon dioxide is the most important

greenhouse gas. It comes from the

burning of fossil fuels in cars, power

plants, houses, and industry.

Methane is released during the

processing of fossil fuels, and also

The greenhouse effect can lead to

changes in the climate of the planet.

Some of these changes might include

more temperature extremes, higher

sea levels, changes in forest

composition, and damage to land


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greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide,

methane, and nitrous oxide.

comes from natural sources like cows

and rice paddies. Nitrous oxide comes

from industrial sources and decaying

plants.

near the coast. Human health might

be affected by diseases that are

related to temperature or by damage

to land and water.

Source: Jonathan Levy, Harvard School of Public Health. Based on information provided by the Environmental

Protection Agency.


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The In use Vehicle Emission norms have been tightened with effect from 1st October 2004 and computerization

model has been developed by SIAM, which is already in place in the Major Metro Cities and would be extended

throughout the country in a phased manner.

The Lambda Measurement is proposed to be introduced in the city of Delhi for vehicles with close loop three way

catalytic Converter.

India has joined as an observer in the UNECE-WP29 as an observer and is actively participating in the deliberation for

evolving. GTR's which would help in harmonization of standards.

The union government enacted a revised Motor Vehicle Act in 1990, making emission regulations a federal

government responsibility. India has established limits on carbon monoxide emissions (at idle) for gasoline-fueled

cars, motorcycles, and three-wheelers; diesel smoke emissions are limited to 75 Hartridge units at full load. New

emission standards for gasoline-fueled cars took effect in 1991. Emissions from diesel vehicles came under control in

1992 based on ECE R49 regulations. These limits are similar to the ECE 15-04 limits but with test procedures tailored

to Indian driving conditions.

Evaporative emissions are not regulated. Conformity of production tests has also been developed. In addition,

deterioration factors and endurance tests have been prescribed. From April 1, 1996, all two-stroke engines in two

and three-wheelers would be required to comply with the tighter emission standards shown below:

Three-wheelers CO: 6.75 g/km; HC+NOx: 5.41 g/km

Two-wheelers CO: 4.50 g/km; HC+NOx: 3.50 g/km

2.2 Major Pollutants from Cars

There are four major pollutants that come from cars:

i. A car emits carbon monoxide when the carbon in fuel doesn't burn completely.

ii. A car's exhaust emits hydrocarbons, a toxic compound of hydrogen and carbon.

iii. When fuel burns, nitrogen and oxygen react with each other and form nitrogen oxides (NOx).

iv. Particulate matters -- small particles of foreign substances -- in the air contribute to atmospheric haze and

can damage peoples lungs.

Technical Measure Evaluation by Emission

i. Up gradation of fuel quality & tightening of vehicle emission norms resulted in decreasing trends of

pollution in major cities of India.

ii. Inspection & Maintenance has definite utility on emission performance.

iii. Concentration of lead in traffic intersection shows good downward trends.

iv. SO2 shows decreasing trends over the years.


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v. Nox & PM still remain a problem though trends are decreasing.

vi. Marginal decrease in RSPM observed at traffic intersections.

Emission Regulations in India - Background - On-Road Vehicles and Engines


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2.3 Indian Emission Standards

The first Indian emission regulations were idle emission limits which became effective in 1989. These idle emission

regulations were soon replaced by mass emission limits for both gasoline (1991) and diesel (1992) vehicles, which

were gradually tightened during the 1990s. Since the year 2000, India started adopting European emission and fuel

regulations for four-wheeled light-duty and for heavy-duty vehicles. Indian own emission regulations still apply to

two- and three-wheeled vehicles.

On October 6, 2003, the National Auto Fuel Policy has been announced, which envisages a phased program for

introducing Euro 2 - 4 emission and fuel regulations by 2010.

The implementation schedule of EU emission standards in India is summarized in Table 1.

Table 1

Indian Emission Standards (4-Wheel Vehicles)

Standard Reference Date Region

India 2000 Euro 1 2000 Nationwide

Bharat Stage II Euro 2 2001 NCR*, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai

2003.04 NCR*, 11 Cies&

2005.04 Nationwide

Bharat Stage III Euro 3 2005.04 NCR*, 11 Cies&

2010.04 Nationwide

Bharat Stage IV Euro 4 2010.04 NCR*, 11 Cies&

* National Capital Region (Delhi)

& Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Ahmedabad, Pune, Surat,

Kanpur and Agra

The above standards apply to all new 4-wheel vehicles sold and registered in the respective regions. In addition, the

National Auto Fuel Policy introduces certain emission requirements for interstate buses with routes originating or

terminating in Delhi or the other 10 cities.

For 2-and 3-wheelers, Bharat Stage II is applicable from April 1, 2005 and Stage III standards come in force from April

1, 2010.


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Truck and Bus Engines

Emission standards for new heavy-duty enginesapplicable to vehicles of GVW > 3,500 kgare listed in Table 4.

More details on Euro I-IV regulations (including testing requirements for heavy-duty gas engines) can be found in the

EU heavy-duty engine standards page.

2- And 3-Wheel Vehicles

Emission standards for 2- and 3-wheel vehicles are listed in the following table.


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3 Current Conditions in India

3.1 Air Quality Management Structure in India

Central Pollution Control Board

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of India is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Environment and

Forests. It was established in 1974 under Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. CPCB is also

entrusted with the powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. It serves as a

field formation and also provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests of the provisions of

the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.There are also State Pollution Control Boards in states for assist CPCB and

they consistently send reports to CPCB.

3.2 Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

The Government of India enacted the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, in 1981 to arrest the

deterioration in air quality. The act prescribes various functions for CPCB at the apex level and SPCB at the state

level.

The main functions of CPCB are as follows:i. To advise the Central Government on any matter concerning the improvement of air quality and the

prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution.

ii. To plan and cause to be executed a nationwide program for the prevention, control, and abatement of air

pollution.

iii. To provide technical assistance and guidance to SPCB.

iv. To carry out and sponsor investigations and research related to air pollution prevention, control, and

abatement of air pollution.

v. To collect, compile, and publish technical and statistical data related to air pollution; and


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vi. To lay down standards for the quality of air and emission quantities.

Environmental regulation/standards/Legislation

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 provides for the control and abatement of air

pollution. It entrusts the power of enforcing this act to the CPCB

The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 states that all hazardous waste is to be properly packaged, labeled, and then

transported

National Air Quality Monitoring Programme

Ambient Air Quality Standards

Vehicular Emission Norms

Fuel Quality Specifications

National Biofuels Policy, 2008

The salient features of the National Biofuel Policy are listed as under:

i. An indicative target of 20% by 2017 for the blending of biofuels bioethanol and bio-diesel has been

proposed.

ii. Bio-diesel plantations on community/ Government/forest wastelands would be encouraged while

plantation in fertile irrigated and would not be encouraged.

iii. The National Biofuel Policy envisages that bio-fuels, namely, biodiesel and bio-ethanol may be broughtunder the ambit of Declared Goods by the Government to ensure unrestricted movement of biofuels

within and outside the States. It is also stated in the Policy that no taxes and duties should be levied on bio-

diesel.

Increasing Vehicular Pollution problems in Urban India are mainly due to

High vehicle density in Indian urban centers.

Older vehicles predominant in vehicle vintage

Predominance of private vehicles especially cars and two wheelers

Absence of adequate land use planning in development of urban areas

Inadequate inspection & maintenance facilities.

Adulteration of fuel & fuel products Improper traffic management system & road conditions

Absence of effective Mass Rapid Transport System (MRTS) & intra-city railway networks

High population exodus to the urban centers


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India has been adopting regulations for fuels and vehicle emissions that are based on European standards.

New requirements are first introduced in Delhi and other major cities, following nationwide implementation.

The evolution of diesel fuel quality is summarized in Table 1.

Table 1

Diesel Fuel Quality in India

Date Particulars

1995 Cetane number: 45; Sulfur: 1%

1996 Sulfur: 0.5% (Delhi + selected cities)

1998 Sulfur: 0.25% (Delhi)

1999 Sulfur: 0.05% (Delhi, limited supply)

2000 Cetane number: 48; Sulfur: 0.25% (Nationwide)

2001 Sulfur: 0.05% (Delhi + selected cities)

2005 Sulfur: 350 ppm (BS III/Euro 3; selected areas)

2010 Sulfur: 350 ppm (BS III/Euro 3; nationwide)

2011 Sulfur: 50 ppm (BS IV/Euro 4; selected areas)

3.3 Technologies available and suppliers - Vehicular Pollution

Abatements

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)

Natural gases are compressed to a range of 200-250 kg/cm3 and this compressed state of natural gas is known as

CNG. The reason why natural gas is compressed is that it takes occupies lesser space and provides adequate pressure

while entering the combustion chamber of the engine. As CNG is another form of natural gas so it has the same

chemical composition as of natural gas. Just like natural gas, even CNG is colorless, odourless and without any

poison. It is slightly lighter than air.

The key benefits of using CNG are as follows:

This gas is considered more eco-friendly. As compared to petrol & diesel, it releases lesser carbon dioxide,

nitrogen dioxide, and other harmful gases. Thus it plays a supporting role in keeping environment clean.

It involves less expenditure as compared to petrol & diesel so considered economical

Biodiesel

Biodiesel, derived from the oils and fats of plants like sunflower, rape seeds, Canola or Jatropha Curcas, can be used

as a substitute or an additive to diesel. As an alternative fuel biodiesel can provide power similar to conventional

diesel fuel and thus can be used in diesel engines. Biodiesel is a renewable liquid fuel that can be produced locally

thus helping reduce the countrys dependence on imported crude.

Market Options

The air pollution control market was worth US$423 million in 2004, and was estimated to be growing at 15 per cent

per annum. Vehicular pollution control was estimated at US$.0.6 billion in 2004. There has been rapid growth in the

market due to strict emission standards in the transport sector.

The Indian alternate fuel vehicles kit market has seen a definite upswing in the last two years with more and more

cities opting to promote alternate fuel vehicles and also with many vehicle manufacturers beginning to offer

alternate fuel as an option in their vehicles. Government regulations and legislations have been one of the key

drivers and these regulations mostly focus on public transport vehicles.


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CNG/LPG - Overall, the total market for LPG kits in India in 2006 was 180,000 units and that of CNG kits at 92,400

units. Passenger cars and utility vehicles accounted for 40 percent of the total market and three wheelers accounted

for the remaining. "By 2012, the number of vehicles with LPG kits is expected to be approximately 1,015,296 units

and the demand for CNG kits is likely to be 878,555 units," says the analyst. "LPG will continue to be the more widely

available fuel with distribution companies working towards making LPG available throughout the country. The usage

of LPG as compared to that of CNG is expected to be more due to the easy availability of LPG."

Flue Gas Desulphurization - Domestic supply mostly features equipment for dust collection in stationary air pollution

control. There is some interest in Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) for industrial air pollution to simulate removal of

SO2 but so far only one scrubber has been installed, and expertise is limited for other gaseous pollutants. There are

30 domestic producers of air pollution control equipment in India supplying 60 per cent of equipment. Opportunities

exist for advanced air pollution control, stack air quality monitoring equipment, clean coal technologies and mercury

control.

Biofuels - According to a recent research report on the Indian biofuel industry, Emerging Biofuel Market in India, a

recent research report:

Ethanol dominates the world bio fuel market and its production is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 6%

during 2008-2017.

Worldwide bio diesel production is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5% from 2008 to 2017.

Ethanol production of India is likely to attain a CAGR of slightly over 2% during the period 2008-2017.

Increased ethanol use is expected to supersede the production during the forecasted period. Domestic

ethanol consumption in India is projected to expand at a CAGR of around 6.5% during 20082017.

Indias total bio diesel requirement is projected to grow to 3.6 Million Metric Tons in 2011-12, with the

positive performance of the domestic automobile industry.

Similar to Brazil and the US, the Indian automobile industry has huge potential for the flex-fuel vehicles.


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Organizations /institutes

Other Government bodies/Research Institutes which are working on Air Pollution are:

Ministry of Environment and Forests-www.envfor.nic.in

Central Road Research Institute- www.crridom.gov.in/

The Energy Research Institute- www.teriin.org

Central Pollution Control Board- www.cpcb.nic.in

National Environmental Engineering Research Institute-http://www.neeri.res.in

Central Institute of Research Institute-http://www.cirtindia.com

National Physical Laboratory- www.nplindia.org


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4 Measures taken to control Air Pollution in India

Some of the non-technical measures taken which are seen in practice across Indian cities are

i. Emission warranty

ii. Scraping old polluting vehicles

iii. Toll tax for commercial vehicles

iv. Subsidies for clean vehicles

v. Parking charges and fine

vi. Encouraging car pool

vii. Awareness campaigns

This also includes some of the measures taken by the local government as below

i. Auto Fuel Policy up to 2010 - what next?

ii. Strengthening of Mass Transportation System

iii. Incorporation of adequate land use planning instruments in transport policy

iv. Progressive improvement in the fuel quality and vehicular technology

v. Zero Emission Vehicles and Cleaner Fuels

vi. Improved PUC programme and development of Inspection and Maintenance (I&M) system for In-Use

vehicles

vii. Old vehicles phase-out programme and development of guidelines for scrap page of old vehicles

viii. Bus Rapid Transit System

Major initiatives taken for air pollution control in India

i. The Union Government enacted a revised Motor Vehicle Act in 1990, making emission regulations a federal

government responsibility.

ii. Emissions from diesel vehicles came under control in 1992 based on ECE R49 regulations.

iii. New emission standards for gasoline-fueled cars took effect in 1991

iv. Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate for all vehicles

v. All commercial vehicles to operate on CNG in Delhi

vi. Gasoline -lead phased-out throughout the country since 2000

vii. National ambient air quality standards based on health impact evolved (1982, 1994).

viii. Emission standards for air polluting industries developed for major industries

ix. Action plan implementation and pollution control in identified problem areas.

x. Improvement in vehicular technology (Bharat-1, Bharat-2, CNG vehicles, 4 stroke engines, etc.)

xi. Improvement in fuel quality -diesel with low sulfur content (0.25 in whole country and 0.05 in metro cities)

xii. Coal beneficiation/clean coal technology notification regarding use of beneficiated coal in T.P.P.

xiii. Air Quality Monitoring at National Level (295 stations spread over 93 cities)

xiv.

Air Quality Index for public Informationxv. Air Quality Data on TV channels and daily news papers for public awareness


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5 Case Studies

5.1 Air Pollution and Management in Delhi, India

On September 26th, 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a compilation of air quality data from

1100 cities across the world and estimated the corresponding health impacts on premature mortality and morbidity -

Delhi is among the top 10 for cities with the worst air quality.

The National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi grew rapidly in the past two decades. As a rapidly expanding city,

demands for transportation, energy generation, construction, waste generation, domestic cooking and heating, and

industrial activity grew significantly in the last decades, contributing to air pollution across the city borders and

resulting in premature mortality and respiratory impacts. In March, 2009, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

of India declared Delhi as Indias Asthma Capital. The city now covers an estimated area of ~900 Sq. km, including

new townships and satellite centers such as Noida and Gurgaon.

In 2010, population of NCR was estimated at ~18 million. This figure is expected to reach ~22.5 million in 2025 (See

Interactive Urbanization Map on BBC, 2005). This page presents a summary of information on air quality in Delhi and

its management.

What are the sources of air pollution in Delhi?

There is no single sector is responsible for Delhis air pollution. Rather, it is a combination of factors including

industries, power plants, domestic combustion of coal and biomass, and transport (direct vehicle exhaust and

indirect road dust) that contribute to air pollution. Seasonal changes in demand for fuel and natural pollution resultin differing sources of air pollution in summer and winter. These need to be taken into account to maximize the

effectiveness of anti-pollution initiatives.

Apart from biomass burning and ambient dust, transportation and industries are major contributors to air pollution

in Delhi. With a growing city, the corresponding transportation needs are fueling a rise in private vehicles (2 and 4

wheelers) and taxis and auto rickshaws. As a result, operating traffic speeds have reduced for all vehicles, thus

increasing idling time and pollution. The efforts to address this by building flyovers that connect and bypass major

junctions in the city have not yielded results as expected. For one, this solution addresses only the supply side of the

equation and does not influence demand management. In fact, as it becomes easier to take a private vehicle, the


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numbers of vehicles have increased (about 1000 new registrations per day in 2011) thus negating many of the

planned improvements.

Air Quality Monitoring in Delhi - CPCB and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) operate Continuous Air

Quality Monitoring Stations (CAMS) at ~10 stations and manually at some other stations.

What is the role of Metro Rail in controlling air pollution in Delhi?

In 2002, a much awaited 65 km metro rail system was introduced in Delhi. The Phase II metro system is also

operational for most part, expanded also to the satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon, including an express line from

the central Delhi to the international airport, with an estimated additional coverage of 130 km. The Metro has

proved itself to be a popular and efficient public transport system and has already contributed towards changing

peoples mode of transport from private to public. From the two phases, the estimated ridership is approximately 2

million passengers a day, which is substantial, compared to the on road transport in Delhi and the congestion levelson the roads.


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5.2 Air Pollution and Management in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has been facing two air pollution issues. One is local street-level pollution. Diesel vehicles are the main

source of street-level pollution. The other is the regional smog problem. Smog is caused by a combination of

pollutants from motor vehicles, industry and power plants both in Hong Kong and in the Pearl River Delta region. The

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government gives high priority to controlling both street-level air pollution

and smog. The main strategies which include implementing a wide range of measures to control emissions from

motor vehicles, power plants, and industrial and commercial processes locally and working with Guangdong

Provincial Authorities to implement a joint plan to tackle the regional smog problem.

Structure within Government for air policy development and provision of services in air quality management

Reducing Emissions from Vehicles

i. The levels of respirable suspended particulates (RSP) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) at the roadside in Hong

Kong have been exceeding the Air Quality Objectives over the years. Motor vehicles, especially diesel

vehicles, are the main sources of these pollutants at street level in Hong Kong.

ii. The incentive programme to replace diesel taxis/light buses with liquefied petroleum gas vehicles

iii. The adoption of tighter fuel and vehicle emission standards whenever practicable


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iv. The incentive programme to retrofit old diesel vehicles with particulate reduction devices providing grants

to help vehicle owners to replace their old vehicles with ones which comply with the prevailing emission

standard for newly registered vehicles

v. stepping up the control on smoky vehicles

vi. reduction of first registration tax for environment-friendly vehicles

Additional Controls for Improvements

To further improve the air quality at the roadside and tackle the roadside NO2 problem, The Government

has embarked on additional control measures to reduce vehicle emissions.

A trial of retrofitting Euro II and III franchised buses with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) devices, which,

together with the diesel particulate filters installed in these buses, could upgrade their emission

performance to the level of Euro IV or V buses

Subject to satisfactory trial results, the Government funded the full cost of retrofitting Euro II and III

franchised buses with SCR devices

They set up a $300 million Pilot Green Transport Fund to support the testing of green and innovative

transport technologies applicable to the public transport sector and goods vehicle

The Government is consulting stakeholders about a proposal to strengthen the control of emission from

petrol and LPG vehicles including the use of roadside remote sensing equipment and chassis dynamometer

testing.

The outcome - compared with 1999, the roadside concentrations of some of the major air pollutants dropped in

2011: respirable suspended particulates (RSP), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), have been down by

33%, 56% and 28% respectively, and the number of smoky vehicles spotted has also been reduced by about 80%.


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6 Conclusion / Recommendations

Ways to Reduce Air Pollution Our recommendations based on the study

The use of alternative fuels has to be promoted in India both for energy security and emission reduction.

Introduce Biodiesel, Ethanol Gasoline blends in a phased manner and draw up a road map for the same.

Formulation of an inspection and maintenance system

Cleaner Fuel Quality - adhere to the stringent emission norms, it is imperative that both fuel specification

and engine technologies go hand in hand.

Ban on commercial vehicles, which are more than 15 years old.

Ban on the registration of new auto-rickshaws with front engines.

Replacement of all pre-1990 autos and taxis with new vehicles, which use clean fuels.

Removal of 8 year old buses from the roads unless they use CNG or some other clean fuel (19).

Emission testing for all vehicles at regular intervals should be made mandatory (PUC certificate).

Improve Traffic management / flow of traffic on the roads, reducing emissions per vehicle kilometer

traveled and enhancing urban mobility.

Availability of improved and efficient Public Transport facilities.

Most cities have already improved the availability of buses; few have started building Metro networks.

Standards are not legally enforceable, unlike in countries like the United States which has the Clean Air Act.

India has an Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 which is supposed to be enforced by the

Central Pollution Control Board. This act lacks teeth; we need to take big steps to curb pollution.

Cutting down on air pollution is an important step in going green. While transportation is the most obvious generator

of air pollution, other aspects of your lifestyle also affect the amount of emissions you create -- everything from the

products you buy, your behaviors at home and the way you handle household waste. A number of small changes in

different areas of your life can make a difference. The big results come when everyone is making such a contribution.

For making India a cleaner and greener place to live, it is the responsibility of every citizen of the country,irrespective of age or socio economic status, to render their efforts and make this mission possible.

Adopt and popularize car-pooling.

Use Public transport where available.

Avoid congested roads and rush hours to the extent possible.

Clean fuel filters, air filters and oil filters regularly.

Clean carbon deposits from silencers.

Maintain recommended tire pressure.

Awareness campaigns to help build public awareness and consciousness right from the school level.


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Bibliography

Research Publications (White Papers, Research Draft, Working Papers, Case Study):

i. Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India - Air Pollution

ii. United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP)

iii. World Health Organization (WHO)

iv. Natural Resources Defense Council

v. Asian Development Bank Sustainable Development Working Paper Series No. 9 (Transport and Carbon

Dioxide Emissions)

vi. Ministry of Environment and Forests - www.envfor.nic.in

vii. Central Road Research Institute- www.crridom.gov.in

viii. The Energy Research Institute- www.teriin.org

ix. Central Pollution Control Board- www.cpcb.nic.in

x. National Environmental Engineering Research Institute - http://www.neeri.res.in

xi. Central Institute of Research Institute - http://www.cirtindia.com

xii. National Physical Laboratory- www.nplindia.org

xiii. Delhi Pollution Control Committee

xiv. DieselNet

xv. Harvard School of Public Health

air pollution from motor vehicles - management of environment report

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