Empowering Communities with Data-Driven Approaches to Reduce Air Pollution and Promote Sustainable Farming
Every year during October and November, Punjab experiences widespread stubble burning as farmers quickly clear their fields after the rice harvest. This practice releases vast amounts of pollutants, including 49 million tonnes of CO₂, affecting air quality across the state and nearby cities. But why do farmers prefer this method despite its harmful effects?
For many farmers in Punjab, stubble burning is the quickest and cheapest way to clear fields between crop cycles. With just 10-15 days between harvesting rice and planting wheat, farmers have limited time to prepare their land. Stubble burning offers an immediate solution, as it requires no extra labor or machinery, reducing operational costs and ensuring the field is ready for the next crop. However, the long-term environmental and health costs far outweigh the short-term convenience of this method.
The Human and Environmental Cost
The smoke from burning stubble drifts to major cities like Delhi, Ludhiana, and Chandigarh, contributing to 44% of Delhi’s air pollution during peak season. This leads to a significant rise in respiratory diseases, with air pollution causing over 1 million premature deaths in India each year. In addition, stubble burning emits greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide, worsening climate change and disrupting seasonal weather patterns.
Reap Benefit’s Platform for Change – Samaajdata’s Role
Samaajdata, a platform for hyperlocal civic and climate data, identified hotspots of stubble burning across Punjab. Using this data, Hardeep, a Solve Ninja from the state, recognized the intensity of the problem in his region. This understanding prompted him to seek alternatives and advocate for more sustainable practices.
H ardeep promoted mulching, a method where crop residue is left on the field to decompose naturally. Mulching not only avoids the need for burning but also improves soil health by retaining moisture and enhancing fertility. With the Government of Punjab offering 80% subsidies on mulching equipment, this alternative became more accessible to farmers, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly solution to crop residue management.
Hardeep reached out to farmers through street plays and community meetings, spreading awareness about the harmful effects of stubble burning and the benefits of mulching. His efforts convinced many farmers to switch to sustainable methods, saving 10,500 acres of land from burning and reducing pollution.
The Government of Punjab recognized Hardeep’s work, which had a lasting impact in his region. His initiative inspired neighboring communities to adopt mulching, contributing to a larger movement aimed at reducing stubble burning. By integrating government policy with grassroots action, Punjab is gradually transitioning toward sustainable farming practices.