Roles of Nanomaterials for the Air Pollution Management in Tribal Regions of Odisha, India

Air pollution in Odisha’s tribal regions poses severe health, environmental, and economic challenges. The increasing levels of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), necessitate urgent intervention. Conventional pollution control methods are often inadequate due to infrastructural and resource constraints. Nanomaterials, with their high surface area, reactivity, and tunable properties, offer innovative solutions for air pollution management in these remote areas. Metal oxide nanoparticles such as titanium dioxide (TiO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), and tin dioxide (SnO2) effectively degrade gaseous pollutants like NO2, SO2, and VOCs through photocatalysis under UV or ambient light, reducing their harmful effects. Additionally, advanced air filtration systems incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene oxide (GO), and nanoporous materials significantly enhance the capture of fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), surpassing conventional filtration systems in efficiency and longevity. Moreover, nanotechnology-based sensors enable low-cost, real-time air quality monitoring, allowing communities to detect hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) and ammonia (NH3) and take timely protective measures. To promote sustainability, green synthesis of nanomaterials using natural resources like plants and fungi offers eco-friendly and cost-effective production methods while supporting local economies. However, challenges related to scalability, affordability, and public awareness must be addressed for widespread implementation. Collaborative efforts among scientists, policymakers, and local communities are essential to making nanotechnology-based air pollution control accessible and effective in Odisha’s tribal regions, fostering a healthier and cleaner environment.