CPCB Issues Draft SOP on Assessment of Plastic Waste Generation
The Draft SOP provides a comprehensive methodology for assessing plastic waste generation and characterizing different types of plastic packaging. It also outlines procedures for validating data reported by local bodies, ensuring transparency and accountability in the reporting process.
Guidelines on Management of Pyro-metallurgical Slags
The guidelines also outline specific areas where iron and steel slags can be used, such as cement production, aggregate in cement-concrete, and construction of roads and railways. Iron and Steel plants intending to use slag for other purposes are required to submit proposals to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) through the respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committees (PCC).
Government Amends Ash Utilization Notification to Promote Eco-Friendly Practices
The Central Government is promoting the eco-friendly use of ash, especially in ash-based products manufactured by micro and small enterprises. These amendments seek to foster sustainable practices and utilize industrial by-products for constructive purposes. The move aims to strike a balance between environmental conservation and supporting small businesses engaged in ash-based product manufacturing.
Goa SPCB Issues Directions On Installation of OEMS
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has issued a circular specifying further directions for installation of On-Line Effluent Monitoring Systems (OEMS) and Emission Monitoring Systems. These installations should be certified by institutions such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA), Monitoring Certification Scheme (MCERTS) and Technical Inspection Association (TUV). This shall be in force till Indian certifications are established.
MoEFCC Introduces Environmental Protection Amendment for Brick Kilns
The introduction of zig-zag technology, vertical shafts, or the use of piped natural gas is expected to contribute to reduced air pollution and improved air quality in the specified regions. Stakeholders in the brick-making industry are urged to adhere to the stipulated timelines for conversion.
Air Quality Report for NCR Cities/Towns
The Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has published the Air Quality Report for NCR Cities/Towns. This report was generated for December 17, 2023 at 4 PM. The latest Air Quality Index (AQI) readings for various cities and towns have been released indicating a diverse range of air quality conditions.
Government Initiates Study to Assess Air Pollution’s Impact on Health
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has sanctioned projects aimed at assessing the impact of air pollution on human health in 20 selected cities across the country under the National Environmental Health Profile Study. The study is a comprehensive evaluation of environmental factors influencing public health, including air pollution.
India-US Collaboration Towards Electrification of Public Transport & Achieving Net-Zero Emissions by 2070
The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change emphasized the critical role of decarbonizing the transport sector to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and achieve the ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2070 set by the Government of India. Speaking at a side event on the India-US “Payment Security Mechanism (PSM)” for e-buses, the Minister highlighted the significance of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), particularly electric buses, to achieve these environmental goals.
GRAP Stage-IV Revoked Amidst Improving Air Quality in NCR
Considering the current AQI level and ongoing preventive/mitigative/restrictive actions, the Sub-Committee sees a likelihood of sustaining the improvement in AQI. Hence, the Sub-Committee has decided to revoke the GRAP Stage-IV actions with immediate effect. Actions under Stages-I to Stage-III of the GRAP will, however, remain in place.
Old Guidelines on Water Purification System Stand Withdrawn
The government has withdrawn the its earlier regulations on the use of Water Purification System that it had issued on October 4, 2021. The new regulations aim to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of water purification processes, ensuring responsible waste management and consumer awareness.
