A recent study by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) has indicated that India can reduce emissions of Volatile Organic Molecules (VOCs) from vehicles by 76% within the next eight years. The primary method proposed entails replacing all two- and three-wheelers with electric vehicles and substituting diesel-fueled vehicles with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) ones. This suggestion comes in light of the fact that India houses 14 of the top 20 global cities with the highest level of air pollution.
Understanding Volatile Organic Molecules
VOCs are carbon-based chemicals emitted predominantly by petrol and diesel vehicles, affecting both air quality and human health. Interestingly, VOCs also have natural origins, such as plants producing these substances to attract pollinators or adapt to environmental stress.
The Health Impact of VOCs
Exposure to VOCs can result in eye, nose, and throat irritation, organ damage, and even cancer, as most of these molecules are carcinogenic. Conditions such as asthma and heart disease have been linked to VOC exposure, as well as health issues related to black carbon, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and congenital disabilities.
VOCs and Their Environmental Ramifications
VOCs contribute significantly to the formation of dangerous pollutants as they react with sunlight and nitrogen dioxide to produce ground-level ozone. They also promote the formation of PM2.5 particles, which affect lung function when inhaled. Despite their hazardous nature, VOCs do not draw enough attention, with only benzene, a known carcinogen, included in the National ambient air-quality standards.
What are Electric Vehicles?
Contrasting conventional vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs) operate on an electric motor and feature a battery instead of a fuel tank. They offer benefits in terms of low running costs due to fewer moving parts and are environmentally-friendly. In India, the fuel cost per kilometre for an EV is around 80 paisa, significantly cheaper than petrol-powered vehicles.
Challenges Associated with EV Production and Adoption
Despite the potential benefits, several challenges hinder EV production and adoption in India. These include lack of stable government policies, technological deficiencies, and lack of associated infrastructural support, such as charging stations and grid stability issues. Additionally, EVs have higher servicing costs due to their technical complexity, leading to skill gap issues among workers.
Governement Initiatives Promoting EVs
The Government of India has set a target for EVs to make up 30% of new vehicle sales by 2030. To facilitate this, initiatives like the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and the FAME India plan were introduced to support hybrid and EV market development and the manufacturing ecosystem.
Way Forward for EV Adoption in India
Efforts to spur EV adoption in India must focus on several areas. Increasing research and development in EV technologies can lead to cost-effective indigenous solutions. Simultaneously, public sensitisation efforts must be made to dispel misconceptions about EVs. Revamping the electricity pricing model and boosting the move towards solar power generation will also make home charging more feasible. Lastly, creating a closed-loop mobility ecosystem involving recycling stations for batteries can help make the shift towards EVs an environmentally beneficial decision.