Black carbon is a significant pollutant resulting from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and biomass. This substance contributes not only to climate change but also to various health issues, posing a threat to both the environment and public health.
The largest contributor to black carbon emissions in India is the residential sector, primarily due to traditional biomass burning. This sector accounts for approximately 47% of the total black carbon emissions, indicating a critical area for intervention.
The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) has played a transformative role in reducing reliance on traditional fuels. By providing over 10 crore LPG connections, the initiative aims to promote cleaner cooking options, thereby mitigating black carbon emissions from biomass burning.
Despite the benefits of PMUY, many beneficiaries still resort to using biomass for cooking. This continued usage can be attributed to challenges related to the affordability of LPG refills and limited access to reliable fuel supply. These barriers hinder the full potential of PMUY in eliminating black carbon emissions.
The government is actively working to enhance access to clean fuels. This includes increasing LPG subsidies and exploring the production of local cleaner fuels, such as coal-bed methane. These measures are aimed at improving affordability and ensuring a sustainable energy transition for all households.
Efforts to reduce black carbon emissions are crucial for achieving public health goals and addressing climate change. By focusing on cleaner fuel options and improving accessibility, the government can significantly enhance air quality and protect the health of its citizens.
Q1. What is the main source of black carbon emissions in India?
Answer: The residential sector is the primary source of black carbon in India, mainly due to traditional biomass burning, contributing to 47% of emissions.
Q2. How does PMUY help reduce black carbon emissions?
Answer: PMUY reduces black carbon emissions by providing over 10 crore LPG connections, encouraging cleaner cooking practices and reducing reliance on biomass fuels.
Q3. Why do some PMUY beneficiaries still use biomass for cooking?
Answer: Many PMUY beneficiaries continue using biomass due to challenges in affordability and access to LPG refills, which limits their ability to fully transition to cleaner fuels.
Q4. What government initiatives are in place to promote clean fuel access?
Answer: The government aims to enhance LPG subsidies and explore local cleaner fuel production options, such as coal-bed methane, to improve access and affordability for households.
Q5. Why is it essential to reduce black carbon emissions?
Answer: Reducing black carbon emissions is vital for improving public health, combating climate change, and enhancing overall air quality, thereby safeguarding the environment and citizens' health.
Question 1: What is the primary source of black carbon emissions in India?
A) Transportation sector
B) Industrial activities
C) Residential biomass burning
D) Agricultural practices
Correct Answer: C
Question 2: What initiative provides LPG connections to promote cleaner cooking?
A) Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
B) National Clean Energy Program
C) Swachh Bharat Mission
D) Atal Mission for Rejuvenation
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: What percentage of black carbon emissions in India is attributed to the residential sector?
A) 20%
B) 47%
C) 60%
D) 75%
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which of the following is a challenge faced by PMUY beneficiaries?
A) Excess LPG supply
B) High availability of biomass
C) Affordability of LPG refills
D) Overuse of LPG
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What is one of the government's plans to improve clean fuel access?
A) Increase biomass subsidies
B) Enhance LPG subsidies
C) Reduce coal production
D) Limit access to LPG
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Black carbon is primarily a result of which process?
A) Complete combustion
B) Incomplete combustion
C) Photosynthesis
D) Carbon sequestration
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: What is a significant benefit of the PMUY program?
A) Increased biomass usage
B) Reduction in indoor air pollution
C) Higher LPG costs
D) Diminished public health initiatives
Correct Answer: B
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