1.

Explain the air pollution control methods and the criteria for selection of
industrial control equipment with examples. [12] [2073 Chaitra]
Refer to QN 1 2075 Chaitra

2. Air pollution in Kathmandu has reached a dangerous level. Justify this

statement with respect to the dispersion of air pollution. How do you propose to
control air pollution in Kathmandu? [2073 Chaitra][6+6]
The statement that air pollution in Kathmandu has reached a dangerous level can be justified by
considering the dispersion of air pollution in the city. Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, faces
significant air quality challenges due to various factors, including rapid urbanization, increased
vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and geographical features that contribute to the trapping
of pollutants. The topography of the Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by hills and mountains, can
exacerbate pollution levels, especially during certain weather conditions.

Justification for Dangerous Air Pollution Levels in Kathmandu:

1. Geographical Trapping: The Kathmandu Valley is bowl-shaped and surrounded by hills

and mountains, which can create a phenomenon known as a temperature inversion.
During temperature inversions, the normal vertical temperature decrease with altitude is
reversed, causing warm air to act as a lid over the cooler air below. This inversion traps
pollutants close to the ground, preventing their dispersion and leading to the
accumulation of pollutants in the valley.

2. High Population Density and Urbanization: Rapid population growth and urbanization
have led to increased vehicular traffic, industrial activities, and construction in the city.
These activities release significant amounts of pollutants such as particulate matter
(PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and
carbon monoxide (CO) into the atmosphere.

3. Limited Green Spaces: The reduction of green spaces and deforestation in the urban areas
of Kathmandu can contribute to higher concentrations of air pollutants, as there are fewer
natural sinks to absorb pollutants.

4. Seasonal Factors: Weather patterns and seasonal changes also impact air pollution in
Kathmandu. During the winter months, temperature inversions are more common,
leading to worsened air quality due to the trapping of pollutants.
Proposed Measures to Control Air Pollution in Kathmandu:

1. Improved Public Transportation: Encouraging the use of public transportation and

expanding the public transit network can help reduce vehicular emissions. This includes
promoting the use of electric vehicles and adopting cleaner fuel standards.

2. Emission Standards and Regulations: Implementing and enforcing strict emission

standards for industries, vehicles, and other sources of pollution is crucial to reduce the
release of harmful pollutants into the air.

3. Reforestation and Green Spaces: Planting more trees and creating green spaces within the
city can help absorb pollutants and improve air quality.

4. Promotion of Clean Energy: Encouraging the use of clean and renewable energy sources
can help reduce the dependency on fossil fuels and decrease air pollution.

5. Waste Management: Proper waste management practices, including waste segregation,

recycling, and waste-to-energy technologies, can help reduce the burning of waste and
mitigate air pollution.

6. Awareness and Education: Public awareness campaigns can help educate the population
about the health impacts of air pollution and the importance of individual actions in
reducing pollution.

7. Regional Cooperation: Addressing air pollution in Kathmandu may require regional

cooperation as pollution from neighboring regions can also impact the city's air quality.

Controlling air pollution in Kathmandu requires a multi-pronged approach involving government

regulations, community participation, technological advancements, and regional cooperation. By
implementing these measures, it is possible to improve air quality and protect the health and
well-being of the city's residents.

3. Discuss the sources of indoor air pollutants. What are the methods for
controlling indoor air pollutants?
Refer to 2075 Chaitra, 2079 Bhadra QN 3

4. Explain the working principle of municipal wastewater management

technique with neat diagram. [2073 Chaitra][12]
Refer to QN 4 2079 Bhadra
5. Briefly describe solid waste generation and management techniques. [12]
Refer to QN 5 2079 Bhadra

6. What are the methods used to quantify noise? Discuss the measure to be taken
for controlling noise pollution. [10]
Refer to 2075 Bhadra QN 6

7. a) Discuss the significance of Environmental responsible construction.[6]

Environmental responsible construction, also known as sustainable or green construction, refers
to the practice of designing, constructing, and operating buildings and infrastructure in a way that
minimizes their negative impact on the environment and maximizes their positive contributions
to sustainability. The significance of environmental responsible construction is multifaceted and
encompasses environmental, social, and economic benefits:

1. Reduced Environmental Impact:

 Resource Efficiency: Sustainable construction emphasizes the efficient use of

resources such as energy, water, and materials, reducing waste and conserving
valuable natural resources.

 Emission Reduction: Sustainable buildings are designed to have lower energy

consumption, which translates to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller
carbon footprint.

 Waste Minimization: Environmentally responsible construction practices

prioritize waste reduction, recycling, and reuse, minimizing the amount of
construction and demolition waste that ends up in landfills.

2. Improved Indoor Environmental Quality:

 Health and Well-being: Sustainable buildings often incorporate features that

enhance indoor air quality, natural lighting, and acoustics, promoting occupant
health, comfort, and productivity.

 Ventilation and Air Filtration: Proper ventilation systems and air filtration help
prevent indoor air pollution, reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.

3. Enhanced Resilience and Adaptation:

  Climate Resilience: Sustainable construction integrates climate-resilient design
and materials, making buildings more resistant to extreme weather events and
other climate-related challenges.

 Flexibility: Buildings designed with adaptability in mind can be repurposed or

reconfigured to meet changing needs, reducing the need for new construction.

4. Economic Benefits:

 Energy Savings: Sustainable buildings are often more energy-efficient, leading to

lower operating costs and long-term savings on utility bills.

 Property Value: Green buildings tend to have higher property values and may
command premium rents due to their environmental and efficiency features.

 Market Demand: As environmental consciousness grows, there is an increasing

demand for sustainable buildings, making them more attractive to tenants,
investors, and buyers.

5. Community and Social Impact:

 Community Engagement: Sustainable construction projects often involve local

communities, creating opportunities for job creation, skill development, and
community investment.

 Aesthetics and Livability: Green buildings contribute to improved neighborhood

aesthetics and quality of life, enhancing the overall livability of the area.

6. Leadership and Innovation:

 Industry Transformation: Embracing sustainable construction practices drives

innovation within the construction and design industries, encouraging the
development of new technologies, materials, and methodologies.

 Regulatory Compliance: Many regions are adopting stricter environmental

regulations, and adhering to sustainable construction principles ensures
compliance and avoids potential penalties.

7. Long-Term Sustainability:
  Preservation of Ecosystems: Sustainable construction helps protect ecosystems
and biodiversity by reducing habitat destruction, resource extraction, and
pollution.

 Legacy: Environmentally responsible construction contributes to a legacy of

stewardship, leaving a positive impact for future generations.

Overall, environmentally responsible construction is crucial for achieving a more sustainable and
resilient built environment, addressing climate change, and promoting a healthier and more
equitable future for both people and the planet.

7.b) Explain the importance of indigenous system of natural resource

management in the context of Nepal. [6]
Here are six key importance of indigenous systems of natural resource management in the
context of Nepal, along with relevant examples:

1. Local Ecological Knowledge and Sustainability:

 Importance: Indigenous communities possess a deep understanding of local

ecosystems and their dynamics, leading to sustainable resource use practices.

 Example: The Gurung people in the Annapurna region practice rotational

grazing, allowing pastures to recover between grazing periods. This prevents
overgrazing and maintains the health of grasslands.

2. Biodiversity Conservation and Traditional Norms:

 Importance: Indigenous practices often incorporate traditional norms and taboos

that protect certain species or habitats, contributing to biodiversity conservation.

 Example: The Rai community in eastern Nepal has sacred groves where hunting
and logging are prohibited. These areas act as sanctuaries for various plant and
animal species.

3. Climate Adaptation and Resilience:

 Importance: Indigenous systems adapt to local climate conditions, promoting

resilience against climate change impacts.
  Example: The Tharu people in the Terai region build raised homesteads known as
"machi" to protect against flooding during monsoon seasons, showcasing
adaptation to a flood-prone environment.

4. Cultural Identity and Traditional Practices:

 Importance: Indigenous resource management maintains cultural identity and

strengthens community ties through the continuation of traditional practices.

 Example: The Sherpa community in the Everest region practices rotational yak
grazing, preserving their cultural heritage while preventing overgrazing in alpine
meadows.

5. Community Cooperation and Governance:

 Importance: Indigenous governance systems ensure equitable resource

distribution, reducing conflicts and promoting social harmony.

 Example: The Magar people in western Nepal have community forests managed
collectively. Decisions about logging, grazing, and resource use are made through
community discussions, enhancing cooperation.

6. Livelihood Support and Sustainable Resource Use:

 Importance: Indigenous practices provide essential resources for livelihoods

while ensuring long-term availability.

 Example: The Limbu community practices agroforestry, integrating fruit-bearing

trees like oranges and cardamom plants within forests. This approach sustains
livelihoods while preserving forest ecosystems.

Indigenous systems of natural resource management in Nepal exemplify a holistic approach to

conservation, integrating ecological, cultural, and social dimensions to ensure the well-being of
both people and the environment.