Any solution to air pollution needs an airshed-level approach, as pollution is not restricted to geopolitical boundaries. Only about 40 per cent of Delhi’s pollution is estimated to actually originate from the national Capital, so it’s not possible to solve the problem through Delhi’s efforts alone.

These were the views expressed by Christa Hasenkopf, Director of Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) and Air Quality Programs at the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC).

In a virtual interview with IANS from Munich, the atmospheric scientist said any solution will absolutely require attacking the sources of pollution, as opposed to vacuuming or diluting pollution once it is emitted.

“It will also need an airshed approach, requiring cities and states to coordinate policy, monitoring, and enforcement. For example, only about 40 per cent of Delhi’s air pollution is estimated to actually originate from Delhi, so it’s not possible to solve the problem through Delhi’s efforts alone. The issue — and the solution — has to be viewed through regional, national and even international lenses.”

Christa, co-founder of OpenAQ, the first open-source, open air-quality data platform for the world, said life expectancy has changed as a result of air pollution over a long period of time, particularly due to PM2.5 which is a fine inhalable air pollutant.

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