Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India's National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve these revised standards? (Answer in 150 words)

Answer

Approach:IntroductionBriefly defining What is Volcano and their occurrence at global level.BodySome of the examples of volcanic eruptions.Discuss the Impact of volcanic eruption on the environment.ConclusionMention significant importance of volcanic eruption.

Introduction

Volcanic eruptions are a natural phenomenon that can have significant impacts on the environment and society. In 2021, several volcanic eruptions occurred around the world, which had varying impacts on the regional environment.

Body

Mount Sinabung Volcano · Indonesia

--- |

Klyuchevskoy volcano · Russia far eastern Kamchatka peninsula

Fournaise volcano · Reunion

Mount Etna · Italy

Erebus · Antarctica

Significant impacts of Volcanic eruptions:

• Air Quality:Volcanic eruptions release fine particles into the air, such as ash and aerosols, which can lead to reduced visibility, crop damage, and other environmental impacts.


• Climate:The gasses and particles released by eruptions can block sunlight, causing cooling of the Earth’s surface. This can lead to changes in weather patterns, including changes in rainfall and temperature. Volcanic eruptions contribute toglobal climate changeby releasing large amounts of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.


• Ecosystems:Eruptions can cause physical damage to ecosystems, such as burying plants and animals under ash and lava flows. They can also cause toxic gasses to be released into the environment, which can kill plants and animals. Volcanic eruptions canchange the soil chemistry, making it difficult for plants to grow and affecting aquatic life also.


• Human Health:The gasses and particles released by eruptions can causerespiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. They can also cause eye irritation and skin irritation.

Conclusion

The occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 had varying impacts that can be both short-term and long-term and can vary depending on the size and location of the eruption on the environment and society, there is a need for continued monitoring and preparedness for volcanic eruptions. While volcanic eruptions can have devastating impacts, they can also provide benefits, such as creating new land and geothermal energy resources.