Monday 9 January 2012

Public outcry pushes China to release stricter air pollution standards

The Beijing City Government is soon to release the results for stricter air pollution standards, according to the Chinese media.

This follows a public outcry about Chinese officials underestimating the extent of smoke and fog that often blankets the capital.

Under the stricter standards, Beijing's government will monitor the smaller air particles, 2.5 micrometers in diameter or less - also known as PM 2.5. Until now these smaller particles have not been monitored. Doctors warn that PM 2.5 particles can cause respiratory problems and other illnesses.

Li Yan, East Asia's energy campaign manager for Greenpeace said: "The government should take things a step further by coming up with a clearer timetable for disclosure of the pollution information, telling the public to be wary of dangerous levels of air pollution and reminding them of appropriate ways to avoid exposure."

The readings of the PM 2.5 standard are expected to start from the Chinese New Year, which falls on January 23 this year.