Accelerated Warming Risks
Rapid reduction of aerosols without cutting greenhouse gases can lead to sudden temperature spikes and extreme heat, especially in polluted areas like India.
Regions that cleaned air in the late 20th century experienced greater warming trends over time.
Abrupt aerosol cuts can increase warming rates on short time scales.
Vulnerable populations, especially in the Indo-Gangetic plains, face heightened climate risks.
Greenhouse Gases vs. Aerosols
Greenhouse gases trap heat, causing global warming, while aerosols scatter solar radiation, providing a cooling effect.
Aerosols also influence the water cycle, affecting rainfall patterns.
Unlike long-lived greenhouse gases, aerosols have a short lifespan (days to weeks), causing immediate climate impacts.
The cooling effect from aerosols is unevenly distributed globally—stronger in the Northern Hemisphere.
India’s Climate Dynamics
India warmed by ~0.54°C from 1906–2005, with greenhouse gases causing ~2°C of warming, offset by ~1.5°C cooling from aerosols and other factors.
Sulphate aerosols from coal-based thermal plants make up 50-60% of India’s aerosol composition.
Reducing aerosols could reduce monsoon rainfall and disrupt the hydrological cycle.
Research shows China’s aerosol cuts worsened heatwaves in the Pacific and North America, indicating global ripple effects.
Health and Environmental Impacts
Aerosol pollution causes respiratory diseases, while greenhouse gases lead to extreme heat and climate disruptions.
Cutting aerosols improves air quality but may worsen heat stress in the short term.
Policies must balance health benefits with climate risks when reducing aerosol emissions.
Policy Implications and Adaptation Strategies
Achieving net-zero carbon emissions isn’t the end; long-term adaptation policies are essential.
Heat action plans in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Surat are often poorly targeted and lack long-term strategies.
Experts stress the need for robust climate resilience plans, especially for heat-prone urban areas.
There’s a need to consider the trade-offs of reduced aerosols—while they improve health, they may accelerate warming and alter rainfall patterns.
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