
A Study of Impact of Indoor Pollution on Respiratory Health of Young Mothers and Children
Indoor air pollution, exacerbated by open fires and solid fuel cooking, poses a significant threat to maternal and child health. Glenmark Foundation, the CSR arm of Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, is dedicated to enhancing maternal and child health. Globally, 3 billion people rely on solid fuels, causing health and environmental hazards. In India, where 87% of rural and 28% of urban households use biomass for cooking, adverse effects on vulnerable groups, especially women and children, are pronounced. Indoor pollution-related morbidities include respiratory infections, COPD, and perinatal issues. Glenmark Foundation underscores the need for development initiatives to address this health and environmental challenge. The study, focusing on Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, employs secondary data analysis from government databases, archives, and research data. Study found that solid biomass usage, prevalent in a majority of Indian households, contributes to high indoor air pollution, impacting maternal and child health significantly. Mitigation measures involve public awareness, transitioning to cleaner fuels, improved stoves, and enhanced ventilation. CSR initiatives, constituting 14% of CSR spending, prioritize sustainable solutions like clean cooking stoves, awareness campaigns, rural electrification, renewable energy training, and biogas plants. The study recommends a comprehensive approach, emphasizing improved cook stoves. Collaboration with NGOs, training women’s groups as trainers, and engaging community stakeholders ensure effective implementation and long-term sustainability. Financial support for research, ongoing initiatives, and public awareness campaigns, including alternative fuel solutions, enhances impact. The Glenmark Foundation’s CSR focus aligns with efforts to mitigate indoor air pollution, contributing to global sustainability goals like SDG 2030 by preventing health issues associated with household air pollution.