We use the GLOMAP global aerosol model evaluated against observations of surface particulate matter (PM2.5) and aerosol optical depth (AOD) to better understand the impacts of biomass burning on tropical aerosol. To explore the uncertainty in emissions we use three satellite-derived fire emission datasets (GFED3, GFAS1 and FINN1) in the model, in which tropical fires account for 66–84 % of global particulate emissions from fire. The model underestimates PM2.5 concentrations where observations are available over South America and AOD over South America, Africa and Southeast Asia.
Exposure to ambient air pollution is a major risk factor for global disease. Assessment of the impacts of air pollution on population health and the evaluation of trends relative to other major risk factors requires regularly updated, accurate, spatially resolved exposure estimates.
To improve air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the Central Pollution Control Board on Dec 30, 2015 issued directions to State Pollution Control Boards of Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan to immediately begin taking actions against visibly polluting vehicles and open burning of biomass, leaves, tyres and other such items.
