Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) defines Environmental pollution as the contamination of the physical environment by harmful or excessive quantities of substances or energies, degrading the natural quality of the air, water and land, and affecting the health, safety and well-being of humans, animals and plants.

Environmental pollution in India impacts crops severely i.e. 20-30% yield loss due to air pollution, 40% soil degradation, 30% water pollution and 25% pesticide contamination.

Impacts of Environmental pollution on Crops – 

1. Ozone depletion increases UV B radiation, damaging crops by reduced yields (5-20%), altered photosynthesis, decreased water use efficiency and changed plant morphology, affecting wheat, rice, soybeans and other sensitive species.
2. Particulate matter damages crops by reducing photosynthesis, blocking sunlight and altering stomatal function , resulting in 5-20% yield losses, lower fruit quality and decreased nutritional value in wheat, rice, and vegetables.
3. Chemical contamination harms crops through pesticide residues, heavy metals and industrial effluents causing reduced yields, altered nutrient uptake, contaminated produce and decreased soil fertility, affecting human health and ecosystem balance.
4. Salinization harms crops by reducing water uptake, altering nutrient balance and increasing toxicity, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves and decreased yields (20-50%) in sensitive crops like rice, wheat, and vegetables.

Environmental pollution poses a catastrophic threat to India’s ecosystem, human health and food security. Urgent measures including policy reforms, sustainable practices and public awareness are crucial to mitigate pollution’s devastating impacts and ensure a resilient and sustainable future.