Modeling the stubble burning generated airborne contamination with air pollution components through MATLAB

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Data Analysis

Background:

• Air pollution poses significant health risks, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases, with high population density exacerbating urban pollution.
• Sources include transport, local heating, industrial emissions, stubble burning, and fireworks, particularly impacting the Delhi/National Capital Region (NCR).

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a data-driven analysis of PM2.5 and PM10 concentration levels over six years (2014-2018) in Delhi/NCR.
• To identify the primary causes of extreme air pollution events, focusing on stubble burning and festival-related emissions.
• To analyze the environmental impact and explore mitigation strategies for air pollution in Delhi/NCR.

Main Methods:

• Long-term time series analysis of air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10) and meteorological variables.
• Data-based modeling and analysis of PM2.5 and PM10 values from 2014 to 2018.
• Investigating the correlation between stubble burning, festivals, and pollution peaks.

Main Results:

• Air pollution levels in Delhi/NCR show significant spikes during November and March, strongly linked to stubble burning in neighboring states and firework usage.
• Analysis confirms stubble burning as a major contributor to the severe air quality issues experienced in the region.
• The study also touches upon the environmental impact of public initiatives like the candle-lighting campaign during COVID-19.

Conclusions:

• Stubble burning and fireworks are critical drivers of severe air pollution in Delhi/NCR during specific months.
• Effective management of agricultural burning and regulation of firework use are essential for improving air quality.
• Further research and policy interventions are needed to mitigate the long-term health and environmental consequences of air pollution.