Can Artificial Rain, Drones, or Satellites Clean Toxic Air?
Delhi’s Air Quality Index plunged to a hazardous “severe plus” level of 494 on November 18, engulfing the city in toxic smog composed of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Authorities are turning to technological interventions like artificial rain, drones for monitoring and mist spraying, and anti-smog guns, but experts criticize these as unproven short-term measures that don’t address systemic pollution sources.
Data shows around 30% of Delhi’s air pollution originates locally, with the rest drifting in from neighboring states, limiting the effectiveness of local solutions. Stage four emergency measures like construction halts and vehicle restrictions have been poorly enforced and lack transparency on their impact. Long-term solutions like better public transport and tighter industrial regulations are needed to tackle this regional air pollution crisis.
A plastics treaty is urgently needed, but getting it right will take time
A United Nations resolution laying the groundwork for a legally binding global plastics treaty was adopted at a key meeting in Uruguay. The preliminary agreement establishes an intergovernmental committee to negotiate by 2025 the terms of the world’s first comprehensive pact aimed at curbing plastic pollution.
Despite hopes for more decisive action, many nations view the outcome as an important step that keeps momentum going towards a landmark deal. More than 150 countries participated in the talks, underscoring widespread recognition of the urgent need to address the growing plastic waste crisis choking the world’s oceans and waterways.
What Trump’s Cabinet Picks Say About Climate Change
Donald Trump’s Cabinet selections offer conflicting views on climate change. Rex Tillerson, nominated for Secretary of State, acknowledged risks posed by rising temperatures while heading Exxon Mobil. However, Rick Perry, Trump’s pick to lead the Energy Department, once called climate science a “contrived, phony mess”.
Senior advisors have considered ways to downplay the Environmental Protection Agency’s role on emissions regulations. While some nominees acknowledge climate risks, administration stances on the issue remain uncertain. Experts warn rollbacks on emissions rules could harm the environment.
Patagonia C.E.O.: Corporate Responsibility Still Matters
Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, remains steadfast in his belief that corporations must prioritize environmental responsibility. Despite a trend among businesses to downplay sustainability efforts, Mr. Chouinard argues that companies have an ethical obligation to address climate change and protect natural resources. He cited Patagonia’s recent transition to a trust model as evidence of the company’s commitment to this cause.
Major corporations like Microsoft and Apple have continued investing in sustainability initiatives, though they now tend to emphasize these efforts less publicly. Some experts suggest this shift reflects a desire to avoid backlash or accusations of greenwashing. However, Mr. Chouinard maintains that businesses must be transparent about their environmental impact and take tangible steps to mitigate it.