Question

UPSC Prelims 2024 Question:

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions?

1. Locomotives using fossil fuels
2. Ships using fossil fuels
3. Extraction of metals from ores
4. Power plants using fossil fuels

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4: Power plants using fossil fuels

Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless, reactive air pollutant with a strong odor. This gas can be a threat to human health, animal health & plant life. The gas contributes to the formation of acid rain and in high concentrations can cause respiratory problems.

The largest source of SO2 in the atmosphere is the burning of fossil fuels by power plants and other industrial facilities. Smaller sources of SO2 emissions include: industrial processes such as extracting metal from ore; natural sources such as volcanoes; & locomotives, ships & other equipment that burn fuel with a high sulfur content.
According to a report by Greenpeace (an environmental Non-Governmental Organization), India is the largest emitter of Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) in the world, contributing more than 15% of global anthropogenic emissions.

Therefore, option (4) is the correct answer.

Subject: Environment | Pollution

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