Understanding the Crucial Metric of Air Quality Index (AQI)

By Shobhna Jain | Posted on 7th Nov 2023 | VNI स्पेशल

New Delhi, 7 Nov, (VNI) In an era of increasing environmental awareness and growing health concerns, it has become imperative to closely monitor the air we breathe. Air quality, a matter of utmost significance, is measured using a vital metric called the Air Quality Index (AQI). This index acts as a barometer to gauge the variations in air pollution in the atmosphere, helping individuals and authorities to make informed decisions concerning their well-being and the environment.

Clean Air for Good Health and a Sustainable Environment - Clean air is not merely a luxury; it is a fundamental requirement for maintaining good health and preserving the environment. Our atmosphere primarily comprises two essential gases crucial for life on Earth: Oxygen and Nitrogen. Any alteration in the balance of these components can lead to severe consequences for both living organisms and the ecosystem.

Monitoring the Culprits: The Eight Major Air Pollutants - The AQI plays a pivotal role in monitoring eight major air pollutants that contribute to the degradation of air quality:

Particulate Matter (PM10)
Particulate Matter (PM2.5)
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Ozone (O3)
Ammonia (NH3)
Lead (Pb)
These pollutants are responsible for various health issues and environmental damage, making it crucial to monitor and control their levels.

Measuring PM 2.5 and PM 10: A Global Standard - The most common measurement used to assess air quality is the concentration of Particulate Matter (PM). PM is divided into two categories: PM2.5 and PM10, representing particles with diameters less than 2.5 microns and 10 microns, respectively. Globally, countries employ the same metrics to measure atmospheric health. However, India goes a step further by monitoring two additional pollutants, lead and ammonia. An AQI value less than 50 is considered safe for the general populace.

Instruments Used for Air Quality Measurement: To measure air quality effectively, various instruments come into play. Some of the notable ones include:

PCE-RCM 05
PCE-HFX 100
PCE-RCM 8
These instruments aid in collecting data that is essential for assessing and addressing air quality concerns.

Understanding Particulate Matter: How Does PM Enter the Air?- Particulate Matter (PM) is a term that encompasses a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. While some particles like dust, smoke, and soot are visible to the naked eye, others are minuscule and require electron microscopes for detection. Sources of PM range from construction sites and fires to fields and unpaved roads. Many of these particles form due to complex chemical reactions involving substances such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which are often emitted by vehicles, industries, and power plants.

National Air Quality Index: A Comprehensive Evaluation -The National Air Quality Index was introduced in 2014 as a comprehensive system to measure air quality. It categorizes air quality into six distinct categories:
Good
Satisfactory
Moderately Polluted
Poor
Very Poor
Severe
This index, developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in consultation with IIT-Kanpur and air quality professionals and experts, categorizes states and cities within the range of 0-500 to assess their air quality, offering a clear perspective on the health of their environment.

In conclusion, understanding the Air Quality Index and the factors influencing air quality is not only vital for personal health but also for the broader ecological well-being. It is essential to stay informed and engaged in efforts to maintain clean and healthy air for ourselves and future generations

Category:
0-50 Good
51-100 Satisfactory
101-200 Moderate
201-300 Poor
301-400 Very Poor
401-500 Severe