Time To Integrate Environmental Concerns: Pollution Control Board Chairman Tells Startups

Guwahati: The Pollution Control Board of Assam (PCBA) has emerged as a key participant at the ongoing India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024, hosting a dedicated stall that showcases live demonstrations of environmental challenges and solutions. Through hands-on experiments and interactive exhibits, the Board aims to educate visitors, especially schoolchildren, about pollution's impact on human health and the importance of conservation.

In an exclusive interview with Pankhi Sarma from Business North East (BNE), Assam Pollution Control Board Chairman Arup Kumar Misra elaborated on the role of startups in advancing sustainability and the importance of instilling environmental responsibility among youth. He emphasized transforming waste into wealth and empowering children to become advocates for a greener future.

Arup Kumar Misra, Chairman, PCBA, with journalist Pankhi Sarma

Here are the excerpts from the Q&A interview:

BNE: This is the 10th edition of IISF. Assam is hosting the event for the first time. How do you view this development?

Chairman: It is a momentous occasion for Assam and the entire Northeast. After nine successful editions across the country, the festival has finally reached the Northeast. I feel honoured to witness this because I have been associated with IISF since its inception in December 2015.

For the Northeast, this is more than an event. It is an opportunity for the children of this region to benefit directly from interactions with India’s leading scientists and innovators. IISF fosters scientific temperament, inspires young minds, and builds a scientific ecosystem. I believe this will have a lasting impact on our region.

BNE: How is Assam's Pollution Control Board contributing to this year’s festival?

Chairman: We are proud to be a part of IISF 2024. We are showcasing various aspects of pollution control through live demonstrations at our stall. This is the first time we have developed experiments specifically designed for schoolchildren, covering topics like air pollution, water pollution, and noise pollution.

We aim to educate visitors about how pollution impacts human health and the environment. We are also showcasing the scientific methods we use to measure and control pollution. This effort is intended to help children and adults understand the importance of environmental science and their roles in conservation. This is more than an exhibition for us. It is a platform to create awareness and inspire action.

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BNE: What message does the Pollution Control Board want to convey to the youth through IISF?

Chairman: Environmental conservation is a science and not just a responsibility. Through our exhibition, we want to show that protecting nature requires scientific understanding and action, and illustrate how pollution control is a systematic process and how each individual can contribute.

Our larger goal is to instil values of sustainability and conservation in young minds. We hope to inspire them to become better citizens who actively work towards a green and clean future.

BNE: Startups are emerging as key players in Assam. How do you see their role in addressing environmental challenges?

Chairman: Startups have a significant role to play in promoting eco-sustainability. However, many startups in this region are focused on developing mobile apps or selling niche products. While these are important, startups also need to address critical environmental issues.

The concept of 'waste-to-wealth' is one area where startups can make a big difference. Globally, waste management is a highly innovative field where nothing is wasted—everything is repurposed. We need that mindset here. Startups should work on converting organic waste, industrial by-products, and other materials into valuable resources.

It is time for young entrepreneurs to integrate environmental concerns into their business models, creating sustainable solutions that benefit society.

BNE: Guwahati’s air quality has been a concern in the past. How do you assess the current situation?

Chairman: Guwahati’s air quality has improved considerably this year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has remained between 50 and 100, a remarkable achievement compared to cities like Delhi and Mumbai, where AQI levels often exceed hazardous thresholds.

Coordinated efforts by private builders and municipal authorities, including increased public awareness, have resulted in this improvement. Initiatives like water sprinkling during construction and other dust suppression techniques have contributed significantly. That said, December is a challenging month due to stagnant atmospheric conditions. We need to remain vigilant to maintain these gains.

BNE: What are your long-term goals for environmental conservation in Assam, and how does IISF contribute to these goals?

Chairman: IISF provides a platform to showcase Assam’s commitment to science and sustainability. Our participation reflects our dedication to fostering environmental awareness and action.

We aim to create a green and clean task force among the youth, encouraging them to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to nature conservation. Initiatives like this festival help us build a stronger connection between science and society. We also hope this event will inspire more startups and businesses to focus on eco-friendly innovations, ensuring a sustainable future for Assam.