About the session

Despite growing scientific evidence and public awareness, air pollution continues to be a persistent and serious challenge across India. While discussions often focus on emission sources or technological solutions, these alone have not led to sustained improvements in air quality.

This webinar approaches air pollution as a socio-environmental systems problem — one shaped by the interaction of human behaviour, economic priorities, institutional arrangements, environmental processes, and political decision-making. It examines why linear solutions and sector-specific interventions often fall short, and how structural constraints, fragmented policies, and social inequities shape air quality outcomes.

The session will also explore the need for trans-regional cooperation across airsheds, along with the importance of sustained investment in research and development, particularly in a context where India’s R&D spending remains low relative to the scale and complexity of the challenge. The discussion will conclude by reflecting on the kinds of multi-level interventions spanning policy, institutions, research, and social action, that are necessary for durable and equitable improvements in air quality.

Who should attend?

This session is open to final-year undergraduate students and recent graduates interested in environmental studies, public policy, development, urban studies, and related fields. It will be especially useful for those exploring interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges, as well as students considering further study or careers in environment, climate, sustainability, public health, or policy-related domains.

Why attend?

• Understand why air pollution cannot be addressed through technical solutions alone
• Learn how social, economic, institutional, and political factors shape air quality outcomes
• Explore the importance of coordinated, trans-regional approaches across airsheds
• Gain insight into the role of research, policy, and social action in addressing air pollution
• Reflect on pathways for more durable and equitable air quality improvements

For any questions, please write to admissions@​apu.​edu.​in.