Air Pollution In Beijing: Do I Need A Mask?

Beijing is notorious for its poor air quality, with high levels of toxic fine air particles, also known as PM2.5, which are of particular concern as they are small enough to enter the lungs and even the bloodstream. As a result, many residents and tourists opt for disposable face masks in an attempt to protect their health. While some claim that healthy lungs can deal with the visible component of pollution, others argue that the minuscule, non-visible particles can have adverse health effects. This has led to a market for various types of pollution masks, ranging from basic dust and cold protection to professional-grade masks with extra filters. So, do you need a pollution mask for Beijing? The answer depends on your individual health concerns and preferences. While masks may provide some level of protection, they might not be necessary for everyone, especially those with healthy lungs.

The effectiveness of face masks

Beijing is known for its high levels of air pollution, with many residents and tourists opting to wear disposable face masks to protect their health. While these masks may be certified to local or international standards, their real-life performance may not match the exposure reduction potential that is marketed.

A study conducted in Beijing examined the efficiency of four types of masks (three cloth masks and one surgical mask) commonly worn in developing countries. The cloth masks with exhaust valves performed best, with filtration efficiencies ranging from 80-90% for the measured particle sizes. However, commercially available fabric masks were the least effective, with filtration efficiencies as low as 39-65%.

Another study tested nine masks claiming protection against fine particulate matter, with filtration efficiencies ranging from 0.26% to 29%, depending on the flow rate and mask material. In volunteer tests, the average total inward leakage ranged from 3% to 68% in sedentary tests and 7% to 66% in active tests, indicating that many commercially available masks may not provide adequate protection due to poor facial fit.

The efficacy of a disposable face mask depends on the efficiency of the mask materials and how well it fits the wearer. The fit can be improved with a simple modifier, such as an ear loop clip, which can substantially improve filtration efficiency, especially for females.

When visiting Beijing, it is recommended to purchase a mask before arriving, as genuine masks can be expensive and hard to find in the city. For short-term visits, some suggest that healthy lungs can cope with the visible component of pollution, and a mask is only necessary during sandstorms or for those with sensitive lungs.

Air pollution in Beijing

Beijing has long suffered from poor air quality, with particulate matter (PM) concentrations being of particular concern. The city's air pollution has been described as "severe", and it is well-known that the minuscule, non-visible particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing irritation and adverse health effects.

In 2013, Beijing officials acknowledged the severity of the problem and implemented a five-year action plan to tackle air pollution, aiming to safeguard people's health and promote long-term sustainable growth. The plan included various measures such as scrapping old polluting cars, tightening emissions standards for diesel trucks, controlling truck traffic flow, limiting the use of coal-fired boilers, and providing cleaner fuels for domestic use.

By the end of 2017, there were visible improvements in Beijing's air quality. The annual average PM2.5 concentration had dropped by 35% compared to 2013, and concentrations of sulphur and nitrogen dioxide had also significantly decreased. The frequency and intensity of heavy pollution episodes were reduced.

Despite these improvements, air pollution remains a concern for residents and visitors to Beijing. Many people opt to use disposable face masks to protect themselves from particulate matter. The effectiveness of these masks varies, and while they may be certified to certain standards, their real-life performance may not match the marketed claims. Professional masks with separate active filters are considered more effective but are also pricier and less convenient to wear.

It is recommended that those visiting Beijing check the real-time air quality data before their trip and take appropriate precautions, such as purchasing masks before arriving, as genuine masks can be hard to find and more expensive locally. While healthy lungs can cope with short-term exposure to polluted air, those with sensitive lungs or respiratory issues may want to consider using a mask for protection, especially during sandstorms or periods of high air pollution.

Types of masks available

Beijing's air pollution can be quite alarming, especially for tourists. The minuscule, non-visible particles are the worst part of the pollution and can infiltrate deep into your lungs. While healthy lungs can deal with the "visible" component of pollution, you may need a mask to filter out the non-visible particles.

There are various types of masks available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some options:

• N95 Masks: N95 masks are widely used and easily accessible. However, their effectiveness against minuscule particles is limited. They may not provide adequate protection, especially in highly polluted areas.
• Activated Carbon Masks: These masks are recommended by some travellers to Beijing. They are designed to filter out minuscule particles and offer better protection than N95 masks.
• Professional Masks with Extra Filters: For maximum protection against minuscule particles, professional masks with separate active filters are recommended. These masks are designed for specialised use and offer superior filtration. However, they tend to be very expensive and inconvenient to wear due to their bulk.
• Respro Masks: Some tourists have suggested using Respro masks, which they have found effective. However, it is important to note that these masks might be hard to find in Beijing, and you may need to purchase them before your trip.
• Disposable Masks: Disposable masks are readily available in Beijing, but their effectiveness may vary. While they are convenient and affordable, they might not provide sufficient protection against high levels of air pollution.

It is important to consider your individual needs and the extent of your sensitivity to air pollution when choosing a mask. If you have sensitive lungs or respiratory issues, investing in a professional-grade mask with active filters might be advisable. However, if you are only concerned about occasional exposure, a simpler mask may suffice.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the availability and authenticity of masks in Beijing can be an issue. Some sources suggest purchasing masks before arriving in Beijing, as the local market may offer inefficient or counterfeit products.

Where to buy masks

If you're planning a trip to Beijing, it's a good idea to consider buying a pollution mask. The air quality in Beijing can be quite poor, and while healthy lungs can deal with the "visible" component of pollution, the minuscule, non-visible particles can be irritating if you have sensitive lungs. These particles can enter your lungs and cause irritation or other health issues.

There are several options for purchasing pollution masks in Beijing, depending on your preferences and requirements. Here are some recommended places to buy masks:

• Pharmacies: Local Chinese pharmacies offer a convenient option for purchasing masks. You can find basic masks designed to protect against dust and cold at these pharmacies. However, for long-term use or more protection, you may need a certified mask. Some international medical centres and pharmacies, such as Beijing United Family Hospital, stock N95-certified masks.
• Online retailers: Websites like Amazon.cn offer a range of pollution masks, including the 3M N95 Anti-pollution Masks. These masks are cheap and effective, filtering out 95% of airborne particulates. You can find packs of five masks on Amazon.cn, with prices starting at 76.49 RMB.
• Specialist stores: Torana Clean Air Stores in Beijing offer Totobobo Anti-pollution Masks, which are fitted with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. These masks are popular among long-term Beijing residents as they filter out 99.97% of particles greater than 0.3 micrometres. The soft plastic masks are adjustable and comfortable. Totobobo masks cost 200 RMB each, and replacement filters are available for 120 RMB per pack of five.
• Cycling stores: If you plan to cycle around Beijing, consider visiting Natooke, a store located in the Dongcheng District. They stock Respro Techno Masks, which combine a HEPA-type particulate filter with an activated carbon cloth filter. These masks protect against gas and vapour pollutants and cost around 369 RMB. Replacement filters are also available in-store or online. Gowilds on Taobao is another option for purchasing Respro masks and replacement filters.
• Imported masks: If you want to ensure the authenticity of your mask, you can opt for imported options. Websites like www.worldhealthstore.com.cn offer a range of imported masks, although they may be more expensive and harder to find.

It is recommended to buy masks before arriving in Beijing to avoid the hassle of searching for genuine masks during your vacation. However, if you find yourself in need of a mask while in Beijing, the above options provide a range of choices to suit your needs.

The future of Beijing's air quality

Beijing has been working to improve its air quality for some time now, and while it has made progress, it still has a long way to go. In 2014, Beijing was crowned the "smog capital of the world", with annual air pollution deaths reaching 2.6 million people per year in China in 2005.

The Beijing Municipal Government has since launched a set of urgent measures to tackle the problem, including laws and enforcement mechanisms, systematic planning, strict local standards, and public engagement. By the early 2000s, pollution gases such as carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter began to trend downwards. With the eyes of the world on Beijing for the 2008 Olympic Games, temporary measures were put in place, and city officials launched their first major push for cooperation on air pollution across the region.

The transport sector has been a key focus, with population and car ownership in the city on the rise. Beijing has made strides in curbing vehicle emissions and pushing electric mobility, with 6,584 electric buses now forming part of the city's public bus network. The city's subway system has also been expanded to roughly 700 kilometres of the network, and bike-sharing schemes have been reintroduced to increase the number of people travelling by bicycle for shorter trips.

Despite these efforts, Beijing's air pollution remains a persistent issue. In 2024, a study by Dr Kaspar Rudolf Dällenbach and an international team found that particle pollution in Beijing remained high, even during the Covid lockdowns when there were substantial decreases in traffic, coal consumption, and overall economic activity. The study revealed that Beijing's air pollution often starts outside the city, with pollutants transported over hundreds of kilometres, making it a regional issue that requires coordinated and stringent large-scale measures.

Looking to the future, Beijing will need to continue its efforts to reduce air pollution and improve the air quality for its citizens. This will likely involve further measures to reduce vehicle emissions, encourage active and public transport, and limit the use of coal-fired boilers. Providing people with cleaner fuels to burn at home and restructuring industries to reduce emissions will also be important. While it may be a long-term process, Beijing has already come a long way from its peak smog years, and with continued commitment and action, it can further improve the air quality for its residents and visitors.

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