About:
Dr. Shailender Kumar has over six years of experience as an Assistant Professor at Miranda House, University of Delhi, He is an expert in environmental science, covering topics such as climate change, pollution, disasters, and biodiversity. He holds a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Delhi, where he investigated the impacts of potentially toxic elements and urbanization on the environment and human health. He has published multiple papers in peer-reviewed journals, presented at international conferences, and received grants and awards for his academic excellence and contributions. He also has experience as an environmental consultant, working on a project on solid waste management in post-disaster scenarios for the National Institute of Disaster Management. His passion is to explore nature and its complex interactions with human society and to share his knowledge and insights with students, colleagues, and the public. His mission is to inspire and empower the next generation of environmental scientists and leaders, and to advance the field of environmental science through innovation and collaboration.
Dr Shailender Kumar, Assistant Professor, Miranda House
Ques-1: First question, would you mind introducing yourself to our gripping onlookers?
Ans: I am Dr. Shailender. I have been teaching Environmental Studies at Miranda House for many years and I am a part of the Center for Environmental Studies and Disaster Management.
Ques-2: Could you provide some insight into your academic areas of specialization and share what inspired your pursuit of them?
Ans: My area of specialization is environmental pollution. During my research, I focused on metal contamination (toxic and hazardous metals) in various environmental mediums like water, air, and soil, with a particular emphasis on mercury pollution. Mercury was the focus of my research. While I was studying for my graduation, there was a significant concern surrounding environmental changes, which inspired me to work in this field. A paper in my Botany subject on Ecology also sparked my interest and led me into this field.
Ques-3: How do variations in urban topography influence the distribution and accumulation of potentially toxic elements (PTEs), and what implications does this have for environmental and human health assessments?
Ans: Urban topography has a significant impact. In urban areas, there are various features like rivers, ponds, lakes, and drains that influence distributions. Mega cities, like Delhi, have varying altitudes and topographies, affecting the movement of air and consequently, the distribution of PTEs.
Ques-4: Can you elaborate on the synergistic effects of multiple PTEs in urban environments, particularly regarding their cumulative impacts on ecosystems and human health?
Ans: Regarding human and ecosystem health, PTEs can accumulate and disrupt the food cycle, especially in upper trophic levels. As humans are part of the ecosystem, this directly affects human health. PTEs can enter the human body through various pathways such as drinking water, where contaminants like Chromium(VI) can be carcinogenic, affecting the health of individuals.
Ques-5: What are the long-term consequences of PTE exposure on epigenetic regulation and trans-generational health outcomes in urban populations, and how can these effects be mitigated?
Ans: PTEs can persist in the environment and transfer from one generation to another, affecting both human health and ecosystems. Some metals are carcinogenic and can lead to epidemics if they spread through the ecosystem. Mitigation efforts should focus on reducing emissions from sources and implementing policies to safeguard human health.
Ques-6: In what ways do socio-economic disparities intersect with the pattern of PTE exposure in urban areas, and how can equity considerations be integrated into environmental health interventions and policies?
Ans: Socio-economic disparities exacerbate PTE exposure, particularly among the poor who often live in unhygienic conditions near industries. Policies should address these disparities by reducing emissions from sources and implementing interventions targeted at vulnerable populations.
Ques-7: Can you discuss the role of citizen science initiatives and community-based participatory research in enhancing our understanding of PTE exposure pathways and empowering marginalized urban populations to advocate for environmental justice?
Ans: During my research, I monitored sites like the Bhalswa region, where people face multiple health challenges due to pollution. Citizen science initiatives and community-based participatory research play a crucial role in raising awareness and advocating for environmental justice. Organizations like Toxic Links work to minimize emissions and support affected communities.
Ques-8: Lastly, do you love plants and if you were to build a garden of your own, what plants would you choose and why?
Ans: It depends on the area where I reside. In polluted areas like Delhi, I would choose plants known for their pollution-absorbing properties, such as Pongamia Pinnata, kigelia africana, and shahtoot. These plants can help clean the environment. In less polluted areas, I would opt for fruit-bearing or flowering plants.
Interviewed by: Aditi Sharma
Edited by: Nikita, Neha, Ekanshi Ojha
Compiled by: Ekanshi Ojha
Picture credit: Tanu Dayal
Recorded by: Tanuja