Addressing the issue of Black Carbon Emissions

Addressing the issue of Black Carbon Emissions

Context: According to a 2016 study, the residential sector contributes 47% of India’s total black carbon emissions followed by Industries 22%, diesel vehicles 17%, open burning 12%, and other sources 2%. 
 Decarbonization efforts in the industry and transport sectors in the past decade have led to reductions in black carbon emissions. However, the residential sector remains a challenge.

What is Black Carbon?
 Black carbon, commonly known as soot, is a component of fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5). It is formed by the incomplete combustion of wood and fossil fuels, a process which also creates carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide, and volatile 
organic compounds.
 Most black carbon emissions in India arise from burning biomass, such as cow 
dung or straw, in traditional cook stoves.

Health and Environmental Impact:
 Black carbon causes human morbidity and premature mortality due to its adverse effects on respiratory health.
 It contributes to air pollution and has implications for climate change.

Climate Forcing Agent:
 In climatology, black carbon is a climate forcing agent that contributes to global warming. It warms the Earth by absorbing sunlight and heating the atmosphere.
 When deposited on snow and ice, it reduces their albedo, further contributing to warming.

How PM Ujjawala Yojana addresses the issue?
 Entitlements: The scheme would provide free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections to households below the poverty line. The programme has provided connections to over 10 crore households as of January 2024.
 Objective: To make clean cooking fuel available to rural and poor households and reduce their dependence on traditional cooking fuels.
 Infrastructure: The PMUY has established infrastructure for LPG connections, including free gas stoves, deposits for LPG cylinders, and a distribution network.
 Impact: It has helped in reducing black carbon emissions because it is a cleaner alternative to traditional fuel consumption.

Issues with scheme:
 According to RTI data, in 2022-2023, only 25% of all PMUY beneficiaries availed either zero LPG refill or only one LPG refill. It reflects households continue to rely on traditional biomass for cooking.
 High cost of cylinder means people shift to traditional sources such as cow dung and firewood.
 Lack of last mile connectivity in LPG distribution network.

What are the other ways to reduce black carbon emissions?
 Efficient Combustion Technologies: Upgrade diesel engines, smokestacks, and residential heating systems to more efficient models.
 Shift to Renewable Energy Sources: Transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. This reduces emissions from power plants and industrial processes
 Strict Emission Standards: Enforce stringent emission standards for vehicles, industries, and power plants. Regular monitoring and compliance checks are essential.
 Urban Planning and Transportation: Promote public transport and cycling to reduce reliance on individual vehicles. Implement green infrastructure and urban forestry to absorb pollutants.