National Pollution Control Day 2024: Acts and Rules You Need to Know About Air Pollution

December 2 is National Pollution Control Day, which commemorates those who lost their lives in the 1984 Bhopal gas disaster, one of the world’s worst industrial disasters. The tragedy caused by the release of toxic gas claimed thousands of lives and highlighted the horrific consequences of industrial negligence.

The day serves a dual purpose: to commemorate the victims and to raise awareness of the harmful effects of environmental pollution on air, water and soil. It also highlighted the need for proactive measures to prevent industrial disasters such as the Bhopal tragedy and promote sustainable development.

Read | National Pollution Control Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, Objectives and Key Facts

Why celebrate National Pollution Prevention Day?

The primary objective of National Pollution Prevention Day is to promote measures to control industrial disasters and reduce pollution. Governments around the world have enacted various laws to regulate and mitigate pollution, ensuring better environmental standards and safety protocols.

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The threat of pollution is growing

Environmental pollution seriously affects human health and quality of life. According to the World Health Organization, household air pollution alone caused nearly 3.2 million premature deaths in 2020. Pollution, or the introduction of harmful substances and energy (such as heat or noise) into the environment, has become a critical issue over the years.

As pollution levels continue to rise, developing effective solutions and implementing control measures becomes a shared responsibility for governments and citizens.

READ | Global air pollution rankings 2024: Bangladesh most polluted; check India’s stance

Laws and regulations introduced by the Indian government to curb pollution

To address the pollution problem, the Indian government has implemented several acts and rules, including:

  • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
  • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cessation Act, 1977
  • Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
  • Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
  • Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986
  • Rules for the Production, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemicals, 1989
  • Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989
  • Dangerous Microorganisms and Genetically Engineered Organisms Regulations, 1989
  • Biomedical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998
  • Regulations on the Production and Use of Recycled Plastics, 1999
  • Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation) Rules, 2000
  • Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000
  • Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000
  • Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001
  • 2006 Environmental Impact Assessment Notice

These laws aim to curb pollution at its source and establish guidelines for the management of waste, hazardous substances and emissions.

Latest updates on pollution control

On November 12, 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) (Method of Investigation and Penalty) Rules, 2024. These rules are implemented under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Pollution Act, 1981 which provides a structured framework for monitoring and punishing offenses related to air pollution.

In summary, National Pollution Prevention Day reminds us of the devastating effects of industrial disasters and the urgent need to address pollution issues. By adhering to strict environmental regulations and fostering public awareness, we can work toward a healthier, more sustainable future. The collective efforts of governments, industry and individuals are critical to combating this global crisis.

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