Current Affairs - Environment

Aerosols are tiny particles or droplets suspended in the atmosphere, often resulting from industrial pollution, especially from coal combustion. Unlike greenhouse gases that trap heat and contribute to long-term warming, aerosols reflect incoming solar radiation, which leads to a temporary cooling of the Earth's surface. However, they also disrupt the water cycle and can suppress or enhance rainfall. The reduction of aerosols, while beneficial for human health, could lead to a sudden spike in temperatures due to the removal of their cooling effect. This paradox is critical in forming balanced environmental and climate policies, particularly for countries like India.

The information highlights that South Korea is experiencing its most severe wildfires, affecting over 33,000 hectares and resulting in at least 26 fatalities. The fires originated in Uiseong and spread quickly due to dry conditions and strong winds, making them difficult to control. Experts also point to climate change as a key factor behind the increasing frequency and intensity of such deadly wildfires.

The new species of killifish, Nothobranchius sylvaticus, was discovered in Kenya’s Gongoni Forest, which is 7.09 million years old. This species is notable as the first known forest-dwelling killifish that is endemic to the region. Killifish are resilient and adaptable, capable of surviving in extreme environments. Their discovery adds to the rich biodiversity of Kenya, a country already known for its diverse wildlife and habitats, including major lakes like Lake Turkana and Lake Victoria.

The study on melioidosis outbreaks highlights how environmental factors like temperature, rainfall, and solar radiation in Odisha contribute to the peak occurrence of the infection during and after the monsoon season. The state's agricultural areas and extreme weather conditions increase human exposure to melioidosis-causing bacteria, with districts such as Cuttack and Khordha showing a higher rate of infection. This emphasizes the impact of climate and geography on disease transmission in the region.

According to the World Air Quality Report 2024, India was ranked as the 5th most polluted country globally, showing a slight improvement from its 3rd place position in 2023. Despite the improvement, pollution levels in India remain concerning, with cities like Delhi continuing to suffer from extremely high particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. This persistent pollution has significant health and environmental impacts, with major contributors including vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and biomass burning, particularly in northern India.