<h4>Introduction to Ground Level Ozone Pollution</h4><p><strong>Ground Level Ozone (GLO)</strong>, also known as <strong>tropospheric ozone</strong>, is a harmful air pollutant that forms near the Earth's surface. Unlike stratospheric ozone, which protects us from UV radiation, GLO is detrimental to human health and ecosystems.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Key Concept:</strong> Ground Level Ozone is a <strong>secondary pollutant</strong>, meaning it is not directly emitted into the air. Instead, it forms through chemical reactions involving other pollutants.</p></div><h4>Formation of Ground Level Ozone</h4><p>GLO forms when precursor pollutants, primarily <strong>Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)</strong> and <strong>Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)</strong>, react in the presence of sunlight. These reactions are complex and are influenced by temperature, humidity, and atmospheric conditions.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Precursors for GLO Formation:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Nitrogen Oxides (NOx):</strong> Emitted from combustion sources like vehicles, power plants, and industrial boilers.</li><li><strong>Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):</strong> Released from sources such as vehicle exhaust, industrial processes, chemical solvents, and even natural sources like vegetation.</li></ul></div><h4>Sources and Distribution</h4><p>The primary sources of <strong>NOx</strong> and <strong>VOCs</strong> are human activities. Urban and industrial areas, with high traffic density and industrial output, are particularly susceptible to high concentrations of ground-level ozone, especially during warm, sunny periods.</p><h4>Harmful Effects of Ground Level Ozone</h4><p>GLO has significant adverse impacts on both human health and the environment. It is a major component of <strong>smog</strong> and poses serious risks.</p><ul><li><strong>Human Health:</strong> Causes respiratory problems, exacerbates asthma, reduces lung function, and can lead to premature mortality.</li><li><strong>Vegetation and Ecosystems:</strong> Damages plant tissues, reduces crop yields, affects forest growth, and impacts biodiversity.</li><li><strong>Materials:</strong> Can degrade materials like rubber, plastics, and paints.</li></ul><h4>Government Initiatives and Concern</h4><p>The <strong>Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC)</strong> has highlighted the steps being taken to control <strong>Ground Level Ozone Pollution (GLOP)</strong> in India. This indicates the government's recognition of GLO as a critical environmental and public health issue.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> Understanding the distinction between stratospheric and ground-level ozone is crucial. Questions often test this differentiation and the specific impacts of GLO.</p></div>