Environmental Ratings Program: Reducing industrial Pollution Through Technology and Transparency

India’s deteriorating air quality is among the worst in the world, with startling health and environmental consequences. Outdoor particulate air pollution is the country’s fifth leading cause of death. Particulate matter emissions also contribute to climate change, acid rain, and poor visibility.

This project aims to use technology to minimize the health and environmental costs of energy consumption in a resource-poor environment. In collaboration with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, we propose to publicly disclose the environmental performance of industrial plants through a “star-rating program.”

This program will increase mutual transparency and accountability between industry, regulators, and the public to create new and dynamic incentives for pollution abatement. Through the use of innovative technology and design, the program has the potential to substantially reduce particulate pollution at a low cost.