SO₂ Emissions
Why it Matters?
The Environment Ministry’s July 2025 move to exempt most coal-based thermal plants from installing Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems raises environmental concerns, as SO₂ emissions are a major source of PM2.5 and acid rain, affecting both health and ecosystems.
What You Should Know?
SO₂ is the main pollutant among Sulphur Oxides (SOₓ), used as an indicator gas for the group.
SO₂ is primarily emitted from fossil fuel combustion at thermal power plants and industrial units.
Coal-based thermal power plants are the largest contributors to sulphur dioxide emissions in India.
Other SO₂ sources include metal smelting, volcanoes, and high-sulphur fuels in ships and locomotives.
SO₂ exposure irritates the respiratory system, especially in children and people with asthma.
SO₂ reacts in the atmosphere to form PM2.5, contributing to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
SO₂ contributes to acid rain, which damages forests, lakes, crops, and soil.
At high levels, SO₂ can damage plant foliage and reduce growth.
It contributes to regional haze and reduces visibility by forming fine sulfate particles.
SO₂-related particles can stain and corrode buildings, monuments, and cultural structures.