Ranchi: The Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board (JSPCB) on Monday hosted a seminar here on sustainable living under the theme, "Clean Air, Green Earth: A Step Towards Sustainable Living" to mark the National Pollution Prevention Day. The event highlighted the dangers of pollution, particularly from single-use plastics and called for collective efforts to combat environmental degradation.
National Pollution Prevention Day is observed annually on December 3 to commemorate the lives lost in the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy and to promote awareness about preventing industrial and environmental pollution. This year, the focus was on addressing plastic pollution, which severely threatens health and ecosystems.
JSPCB secretary Rajeev Bakshi emphasised the need for public participation in pollution control. "Pollution impacts every aspect of life — from health to the environment. Individuals, industries and policymakers must adopt sustainable practices," Bakshi said.
A report by the India Clean Air Network (ICAN) titled ‘Urbanisation & Solid Waste Production: Environmental Implications, Ranchi, Jharkhand' revealed alarming statistics which said the per capita municipal solid waste generation in the state is 425 grams daily, rising to 494 grams in Ranchi. The city produces 365 tonnes of plastic waste annually much of which ends up in the 41-acre Jhiri dumping yard. Over the last 25 years, the Jhiri dumping yard accumulated 19 lakh metric tonnes of waste.
Underscoring the public health risks of plastic pollution, Dr Gangan Gunjan, an assistant professor at Rims here, said "Plastic pollution, particularly microplastics, has silently infiltrated our everyday lives, posing significant risks to public health."
He added, "These particles can accumulate in organs, increasing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions."
Dr Atri Gangopadhyay, a consultant pulmonologist, highlighted respiratory risks from pollution saying, "Microscopic plastic particles are now detected in the air we breathe. This is no longer just an environmental issue but a public health crisis."
Ajay Mittal, co-chairperson of ICAN, said, "Addressing this crisis requires stronger policies, widespread awareness and a commitment to sustainable living to safeguard both health and the planet."