Shanghai's Air Quality: Is It Safe To Breathe?

Shanghai, China, is a city with a population of over 24 million people. With such a large population, the city's air quality is a significant concern for its residents. While Shanghai's air quality has improved since 2013, it still faces challenges, particularly with the recent increase in air pollution in 2023, attributed to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the resumption of pre-pandemic transportation and production activities. The city's air pollution levels can vary, with sensitive groups being advised to limit their time outdoors during periods of elevated pollution.

Shanghai's air quality is 'poor' with an AQI of 106

Shanghai's air quality is poor, with an AQI of 106. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is an internationally recognised set of metrics that indicates the level of pollution in a given area. It is based on the levels of six of the most common air pollutants.

In Shanghai, the main pollutant is PM2.5 (fine particulate matter), which had a level of 34 µg/m³ in June 2022. The World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests a target figure of 5 µg/m³, which means Shanghai's air quality is almost seven times higher than the recommended level.

When the AQI is this high, those who are sensitive to poor air quality should restrict their time outdoors. Even healthy individuals may experience negative health effects with prolonged exposure, such as difficulty breathing and throat irritation. It is recommended to keep doors and windows closed to prevent more dirty air from entering the rooms.

Shanghai's air quality is monitored by several stations across the city, including four operated by the local government. The data from these stations is available in real-time and can be accessed through various platforms, such as the Shanghai Environment Monitoring Center and the China National Urban Air Quality Real-time Publishing Platform.

PM2.5 levels are 37µg/m³, seven times the WHO target

Shanghai, one of the most populous cities in the world, is notorious for its poor air quality. The city's air pollution levels are often several times higher than the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended targets, with PM2.5 levels reaching as high as 37 µg/m³. This is a significant concern as PM2.5, or fine particulate matter, is a major contributor to haze and smog

Sensitive groups are advised to limit outdoor activities

Shanghai's air quality is a concern for its residents, and those visiting or moving to the city. The air quality index (AQI) is a useful tool to understand the level of pollution in the air and its potential impact on health. In June 2022, Shanghai's AQI was 97, which is classified as "Moderate". However, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a target figure of 5 µg/m³ for PM2.5, and Shanghai's level was seven times higher at 34 µg/m³.

When the AQI is in the yellow level (51-100), it is generally considered safe for the public, but sensitive groups may face health risks and should exercise caution. Orange level (101-150) is when sensitive groups are advised to limit outdoor activities as they may experience health effects. This includes children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions, such as respiratory issues like asthma, or those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Healthy adults who spend a lot of time outdoors are also considered part of the sensitive groups due to their higher exposure to pollutants.

Ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter are some of the common pollutants in Shanghai's air. These pollutants can cause coughing, breathing difficulties, and lung damage, and irritate the body's airways. Therefore, when the AQI is in the orange level, it is important for sensitive groups to limit their time outdoors and take precautions to protect their health.

Shanghai's air pollution levels can be affected by various factors, including industrial zones, power stations, vehicle emissions, and seasonal changes. It is important for residents and visitors to stay informed about the AQI and take necessary precautions to protect their health, especially for those in sensitive groups. Checking the real-time AQI and AQI forecasts can help individuals plan their outdoor activities accordingly and reduce potential health risks.

Shanghai's air quality has improved since 2013

Shanghai, China's largest city, has been facing air pollution due to its expanding population. In 2013, the Chinese government took action by implementing the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan, with a focus on the Jing-Jin-Ji triangle and surrounding provinces. This plan aimed to improve air quality by reducing ambient air pollution and setting specific targets for polluted areas. The government also incentivized provincial and local officials to improve the environment and reduce emissions.

Since 2013, Shanghai's air quality has shown improvement. Between 2013 and 2017, PM2.5 levels were reduced by 33% in at least 74 cities across China. By August 2019, Beijing experienced its lowest PM2.5 reading since records began, dropping to 23 µg/m³. This indicates a positive trend in air quality improvement, and if levels continue to drop, Beijing could fall out of the top 200 most polluted cities globally.

The Chinese government's efforts to transition from coal to natural gas for power and encourage the use of electric vehicles have contributed to the air quality improvements. The closure of coal-fired power plants and the reduction of emissions from existing plants have had a positive impact. Additionally, the government's investment in combating pollution, with over $277 billion pledged by the Academy for Environmental Planning in 2013, demonstrates their commitment to the issue.

While Shanghai's air quality has improved since 2013, it still faces challenges. In June 2022, Shanghai experienced "Moderate" air quality with a US AQI reading of 97, mainly due to PM2.5 pollution. The WHO recommends a target figure of 5 µg/m³, and Shanghai's levels were almost seven times higher. This highlights that more work needs to be done to achieve healthy air quality consistently.

Industrial zones and power stations are areas of high pollution

Shanghai, like many cities, struggles with air pollution. In June 2022, Shanghai's air quality was rated "Moderate" with a US AQI reading of 97. The main pollutant was PM2.5, with a level of 34 µg/m³. The World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests a target figure of 5 µg/m³, so Shanghai's air quality was seven times higher than the recommended level.

Power plants, particularly thermal power plants, are a significant source of air pollution. In Europe, 24 of the top 30 polluting facilities are thermal power stations, and coal power plants cause about half of the total damage from industrial pollution. The European Union has strict regulations on industrial pollution, and environmental and health costs from European industry have decreased by a third from 2012 to 2021.

In the United States, factories, power plants, and other stationary sources are often built in areas with few regulations, which tend to be lower-income neighbourhoods. A California study found that over 30 years, 245 toxic polluting facilities were deliberately placed in poor communities. These communities have fewer resources and less political power to oppose the siting of polluting facilities, and they experience greater health and environmental risks as a result.

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