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Plastic takes centuries to break down and during that time, it fragments into smaller pieces.
Marine animals, such as fish, often mistake these tiny plastic particles for food. Consuming plastic
can harm or even kill them. Plastics do not biodegrade instead, they break into microplastics,
which enter the food chain and can eventually end up in the food we eat.

How AI Helps

AI technology can support environmental protection by examining satellite images to find
locations heavily affected by plastic waste. For example, in 2023, the Department of Environment
Science and Technology (DEST) used satellite imagery to detect 70 plastic waste dumps in

Himachal Pradesh. This technology helps authorities and environmental organisations respond
more quickly and effectively, enabling them to remove plastic waste before it causes significant
harm to the environment.

Air Quality Problems

Air quality problems occur when harmful gases
and particles mix with the air. This is mainly
caused by vehicle emissions, factory smoke
and burning of fuels. Poor air quality can lead to
breathing problems and other health issues. It also
affects plants and animals. Using clean energy
sources, reducing vehicle use and planting trees
can improve air quality.
Think for a moment about the air you breathe every day. In many cities, the air is filled with
harmful pollutants released from vehicles, factories and the burning of crop residue in nearby
fields. During the winter season, pollution levels in some cities become extremely dangerous and
the Air Quality Index (AQI) often reaches hazardous levels. Across the world, millions of people
lose their lives each year because of air pollution.

Poor air quality affects everyone, but children and older people are the most vulnerable. It can
lead to breathing problems, asthma attacks and disorders related to the brain and immune
system. In children, polluted air may also reduce concentration, lower thinking ability and cause
mental tiredness. Students living in heavily polluted areas may struggle to focus on their studies,
which can negatively affect their academic performance.

How AI Helps

AI systems can study information collected from air quality stations in different parts of a city. By
looking at pollution levels and weather conditions, AI can predict when and where the air may
become more polluted. This helps authorities take action early, such as:

 Asking schools to stop outdoor activities
 Warning hospitals to get ready for more patients with breathing problems

 Limiting vehicles in highly polluted areas for some time
 Informing farmers about the right weather for stubble burning

Deeper Dive into AI Applications 35