Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
6) Critically analyze the health and environmental effects of using water and air purifiers.(250 words)
Why this question
Air and water purifiers have become quite common and their demand has also been increasing across India. However, there are many issues associated with their usage, as they affect the health and environment. The issue is related to GS-3 syllabus under the following heading-
Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Key demand of the question
The question wants us to delve deeper into the issue and bring out the effects of using water and air purifiers- positive and negative, and then form an opinion on their efficacy and desirability.
Directive word
Critically analyze- We have to discuss the pros and cons of using water and air purifiers, and form an opinion on their use based on the discussion.
Structure of the answer
Introduction- Mention the growing popularity of air and water purifiers and reasons behind that- growing pollution, growing population, growing income, growing consciousness about pollution etc.
Body–
- discuss the pros of using air and water purifiers.
e.g air purifiers- recommended in highly polluted areas for children, asthma patients and patients suffering from some cardiovascular disease etc.
water purifiers- recommend in areas where untreated water is supplied etc.
- discuss the cons of using water and air purifiers.
e.g air purifiers- no indicator for ensuring proper working of the equipment, outdoor pollution remains same and even aggravates, outdoor pollution can’t be avoided altogether etc.
water purifiers- no indicator, wastage of water, pollution of outdoor water, irrational use like in areas getting supply of treated water etc.
Conclusion- mention the lack of BIS standards and need to educate people about the usage of water and air purifiers, and the imperative to holistically address pollution at individual and collective levels.
