Greta Jimenez
Beijing's air pollution, once dubbed the Airpocalypse, has been a persistent and dangerous issue for the city's over 20 million inhabitants. The city's air pollution stems from a combination of factors, including industrial emissions, coal combustion, construction, household fuel burning, and traffic fumes from congested roads. In this article, we will explore the measures that Beijing's residents and the government have implemented to survive and combat the city's air pollution crisis. From the adoption of face masks and air quality apps to the introduction of electric vehicles and stricter environmental regulations, we will delve into the strategies employed to mitigate the health risks associated with Beijing's poor air quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Beijing's air pollution | Once dubbed "'Airpocalypse'" |
| Cause of air pollution | Industrial emissions from heavy industries, coal combustion, construction, household fuel burning, traffic fumes from congested roads, topography, seasonal weather patterns, economic boom, population growth, and surge in motor vehicles |
| Impact of air pollution | Health risks, including increased mortality rates |
| Action by the Chinese government | Push to relocate heavy industries from Beijing to surrounding areas, stringent laws to curb industrial pollutant emissions, investment in electric mobility, bike-sharing schemes, and improved public transport |
| Action by Beijing authorities | Scrapping old polluting cars, increased inspections of vehicles, tightened standards on emissions from diesel trucks, Controlled flow of truck traffic, limited use of coal-fired boilers, provided cleaner fuels for homes, restructured industry to reduce emissions, repaired degraded ecosystems, and increased green spaces |
| Air Quality Index (AQI) | Beijing's overall AQI is 63, with PM2.5 AQI at 30, PM10 AQI at 12, NO2 AQI at 4, SO2 AQI at 1, O3 AQI at 63, and CO AQI at 3 |
| Real-time air quality data | Available through websites, apps, and plugins |
| Public perception | Some residents choose to ignore the pollution, while others take precautions such as wearing face masks |
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What You'll Learn
Wear a face mask
Face masks have been a part of daily life in Beijing, with almost everyone on the street wearing one in winter. While air quality in Beijing has been improving, residents are not ready to give up their pollution masks just yet.
Disposable face masks are commercially available in Beijing and are used by many residents to protect their health from high particulate matter (PM) concentrations. However, these retail masks may not provide adequate protection due to poor facial fit, and their real-life performance may not be as effective as marketed. Therefore, it is important to choose the right mask. Studies have shown that different types of face masks provide varying levels of protection, depending on the materials used, the load of pollutants, the size and characteristics of the particles, and the face fit.
When outdoors, it is recommended to wear a mask as often as possible. Masks are especially important for those who work outdoors, as they can help prevent coughing fits and breathing difficulties.
Additionally, there are apps that can help residents determine the air quality and decide what kind of mask is needed for the day.
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Monitor air quality with apps
Monitoring air quality is critical for your health when in Beijing. There are many apps available that can help you do this.
The China Air Quality Index app is a popular choice among foreigners in Beijing. It allows users to quickly share air quality information on social media and also has support for Apple's iWatch for quick checks. It displays data on PM2.5, ozone, and other pollutants. It can also connect to the Origins Laser Egg Device, which measures indoor PM2.5.
Air Mentor is another app that provides an actual number for several factors of air quality. It won the Computex d&i award in 2015, Asia's largest technological innovation trade fair.
RESET is an app that was developed independently from any accompanying hardware. It was founded by Canadian architects in Shanghai and is an independent third-party organization that combines building material research with cloud software. Users can make their IAQ numbers public, enabling other users to track the healthiest public places in Beijing.
The GAIA air quality monitor uses laser particle sensors to measure PM2.5 and PM10 particle pollution in real-time. It is easy to set up and requires only a WiFi access point and a USB-compatible power supply. Once connected, your real-time air pollution levels are available on maps.
There are also other apps and websites that provide real-time air quality data for Beijing, such as AccuWeather and IQAir. These sources gather data from various monitoring stations and instruments to provide up-to-date information on air pollution levels.
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Use public transport, walk or cycle
Beijing has long been known for its poor air quality, with pollution posing a significant threat to the health and well-being of its residents. However, the city has been taking steps to improve its air quality and reduce pollution. One of the key ways to survive pollution in Beijing is to opt for sustainable travel options such as public transportation, walking, or cycling.
Public transportation in Beijing includes an extensive network of over 20 subway lines and 3,000 bus lines. Urban rail transit, in particular, has gained prominence as an efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. It helps mitigate traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, with 55 Chinese cities having implemented urban rail transit operations by the end of 2022. Beijing's rapid economic development has led to a significant increase in carbon emissions from the transport sector, with motor vehicle emissions constituting approximately 60% of the city's air pollution. Therefore, choosing public transportation over private cars can help reduce congestion and improve air quality.
Walking is another viable option to navigate Beijing while reducing your contribution to pollution. The concept of "active travel," which includes walking, has gained traction, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, traffic volume dropped, and the share of walking increased. Even after the pandemic, some individuals continued to prefer walking, contributing to a more sustainable urban mobility landscape.
Cycling has also made a comeback in Beijing as a means to reduce air pollution. The Hangzhou bike-sharing scheme, launched in 2008, integrated well with other public transport options and provided a convenient service for short journeys. This initiative led to a reduction in car usage and associated congestion and pollution. Beijing has likely learned from Hangzhou's success, as massive piles of abandoned or broken bicycles have become a familiar sight in the city. Nevertheless, Beijing is encouraging cycling as a sustainable alternative, and the integration of cycling infrastructure with public transportation promotes even more eco-friendly travel options.
By utilizing public transportation, walking, or cycling, you can play a part in reducing pollution in Beijing. These choices not only benefit your health but also contribute to the city's efforts to create a cleaner and more sustainable environment for its residents.
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Advocate for political action
Political action is a crucial component of tackling pollution in Beijing. The Chinese government has implemented various measures to address the issue, and there is ongoing work to reduce air pollution. However, more needs to be done to protect the health and well-being of Beijing's residents. Here are some ways to advocate for political action:
- Engage with Government Officials: Reach out to local and national government representatives to express your concerns about pollution in Beijing. Emphasize the health risks associated with air pollution, particularly cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Urge them to prioritize pollution reduction and enforce stricter emission standards.
- Support Environmental Campaigners: Join or collaborate with environmental advocacy groups, such as the World Heart Federation (WHF) and its Air Pollution Expert Group (APEG). These organizations work closely with governments and international bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) to develop policies and guidelines to combat air pollution. By supporting these groups, you can amplify their efforts and contribute to political action.
- Promote Public Awareness: Utilize social media platforms, blogs, and other communication channels to raise awareness about pollution in Beijing. Share reliable data, personal stories, and potential solutions to engage and educate the public. A well-informed public can exert pressure on policymakers to implement effective measures.
- Participate in Elections: Vote for political candidates who prioritize environmental issues and have concrete plans to address pollution. Encourage others to do the same by organizing voter education campaigns and promoting the importance of electing officials committed to creating sustainable policies.
- Collaborate with Healthcare Professionals: Advocate for air pollution mitigation alongside healthcare providers. Clinicians and health care organizations can play a crucial role in raising awareness, providing personal protective measures, and integrating air pollution considerations into disease management approaches. Collaborating with the healthcare sector adds a powerful voice to your advocacy efforts.
- Engage in Policy Development: Stay informed about policy developments related to air quality and pollution control. Participate in public consultations, provide feedback on proposed policies, and offer suggestions for improvement. You can also propose policy ideas to local and national governments, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive and evidence-based approaches.
- Network with International Organizations: Collaborate with international organizations working on pollution reduction, such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Health Organization (WHO). These organizations often provide resources, expertise, and global initiatives that can support local political action. By partnering with them, you can access tools and knowledge to strengthen your advocacy efforts.
Remember, political action is most effective when it is informed, persistent, and collaborative. By engaging with various stakeholders and advocating for systemic changes, you can contribute to the larger movement towards a healthier and more sustainable Beijing.
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Relocate to less-polluted areas
Beijing has long been notorious for its poor air quality, ranking among the most air-polluted cities globally. The city's air pollution results from industrial emissions, coal combustion, construction, household fuel burning, and traffic fumes from congested roads. The economic boom, population growth, and surge in motor vehicles have worsened the situation.
To escape the pollution in Beijing, one option is to relocate to less-polluted areas. Here are some suggestions for areas with relatively better air quality:
Suburbs and Rural Areas Outside Beijing: Moving away from the city centre and industrial areas can provide some relief from pollution. Look for suburbs or rural areas on the outskirts of Beijing with lower population densities and less industrial activity. These areas may have cleaner air due to reduced emissions from traffic and industries.
Provinces with Improved Air Quality: Some provinces in China have shown significant improvements in air quality. For example, Hebei Province, which used to be one of the most polluted regions, has been on the frontline of China's "war on pollution." It has taken measures to reduce pollution, and by 2030, it aims to integrate with Beijing and Tianjin to resolve long-standing pollution issues. While Hebei has faced challenges with enforcement, the province's efforts have made it a potential option for relocation.
Cities with Lower Pollution Levels: When considering relocation within China, look for cities with lower pollution levels. For example, Shenzhen and Guangzhou in southern China have relatively better air quality compared to northern cities. These cities have benefited from their geographical location and the government's focus on environmental protection.
International Relocation: If you are open to international relocation, there are cities worldwide known for their cleaner air and environmental initiatives. For instance, Singapore has strict air pollution control measures and consistently ranks as one of the least polluted cities in Asia. Additionally, cities like Stockholm in Sweden and Wellington in New Zealand are known for their clean air and commitment to sustainability.
Remember that while relocating can provide a respite from Beijing's pollution, it is also essential to stay informed about the air quality at your potential destinations and continue taking necessary precautions, as pollution is a widespread issue.
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Frequently asked questions
The main causes of pollution in Beijing are industrial emissions from heavy industries, coal combustion, construction, household fuel burning, and traffic fumes from congested roads.
The health risks of pollution in Beijing include increased mortality rates and respiratory issues. In particular, high levels of PM2.5, consisting of K+, Ca2+, NO3-, and SO42-, have been linked to adverse health effects.
The Chinese government has implemented several measures to address pollution in Beijing, including relocating heavy industries, introducing stricter laws to curb industrial pollutant emissions, promoting electric mobility, and increasing the use of green spaces within the city.
Individuals in Beijing can protect themselves from pollution by wearing face masks, using apps that track the air quality index, and limiting their time outdoors when the air quality is poor.
