Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasising its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg Protocol. (150 words) [2022]
Photochemical smog is a type of air pollution that is formed through the chemical reactions of pollutants in the presence of sunlight. It is typically characterized by the presence of high levels of ozone and other oxidants, as well as fine particulate matter. Photochemical smog is formed when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) react with sunlight to form ozone and other oxidants. This process is known as the “photochemical reaction.”
The formation of photochemical smog is typically associated with urban areas and is influenced by factors such as the intensity of sunlight, temperature, and the presence of NOx and VOCs. Photochemical smog can have a range of negative effects on human health and the environment, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems, damage to vegetation and ecosystems, and reduced visibility.
There are a number of measures that can be taken to mitigate photochemical smog, including the reduction of NOx and VOC emissions from sources such as transportation, industry, and household products, the implementation of air quality regulations, and the promotion of alternative modes of transportation and cleaner fuels.
The 1999 Gothenburg Protocol is an international agreement under the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) that aims to reduce emissions of NOx and VOCs in order to reduce the formation of photochemical smog and improve air quality. The Protocol sets targets for the reduction of NOx and VOC emissions in a number of countries in Europe and North America, and provides a framework for cooperation and collaboration among Parties to achieve these targets.
![An elevated corridor is being constructed to reduce traffic congestion in the capital of a particular state. You have been selected as project manager of this prestigious project on your professional competence and experience. The deadline is to complete the project in the next two years by 30 June 2021, since the project is to be inaugurated by the Chief Minister before the elections are announced in the second week of July 2021. While carrying out the surprise inspection by the inspecting team, a minor crack was noticed in one of the piers of the elevated corridor possibly due to poor material used. You immediately informed the chief engineer and stopped further work. It was assessed by you that a minimum of three piers of the elevated corridor have to be demolished and reconstructed. But this process will delay the project minimum by four to six months. But the chief engineer overruled the observation of the inspecting team on the ground that it was a minor crack that will not in any way impact the strength and durability of the bridge. He ordered you to overlook the observation of the inspecting team and continue working with the same speed and tempo. He informed you that the minister does not want any delay as he wants the Chief Minister to inaugurate the elevated corridor before the elections are declared. Also informed you that the contractor is a far relative of the minister and he wants him to finish the project. He also gave you a hint that your further promotion as an additional chief engineer is under consideration by the ministry. However, you strongly felt that the minor crack in the pier in the elevated corridor will adversely affect the health and life of the bridge and therefore it will be very dangerous not to repair the elevated corridor. [2021]](https://www.iasexpress.net/wp-content/plugins/pt-content-views-pro/public/assets/images/lazy_image.png)
