Tropospheric ozone pollution: Implication for food security and crop nutrition in South Asia

The study was conducted on ambient ozone (O-3), the most phyto-toxic air pollutant, and its effects on the growth and quality of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and peas (Pisum sativaum) grown in Northern Pakistan during the summer and winter of 2018. Okra was subjected to ambient O-3 levels ranging from 43 to 63 ppb during the summer, with a mean O-3 concentration of 55 ppb, while peas experienced lower winter concentrations of 15-25 ppb, with a mean O-3 concentration of 19 ppb. The results indicated significant impacts on the growth and nutritional quality of crops, especially okra. Anti-ozonant ethylene diurea (EDU) was used for soil drenching to protect okra and green peas from O-3 damage. Okra showed notable enhancements of 20%, 20%, 29%, and 13% in ash, protein, fiber, and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFE), respectively. Increase in plant height, leaf numbers, pod length, and dry weight was observed in EDU-treated okra plants. Conversely, peas exhibited less variation, although melioration was observed in plant height, pod numbers, length, and weight with EDU treatment. It was concluded that the concentration of ambient O-3 in Peshawar is toxic enough to cause significant damage to crop growth and production. The stark difference in O-3 impact during different seasons suggests that higher summer concentrations could for summer crops that can jeopardize future food security. It is recommended that further research be conducted on the effects of O-3 on other regional crops to assess fully its implications for agricultural sustainability in the area.