TITLE:
A Study of Smog Issues and PM2.5 Pollutant Control Strategies in China
AUTHORS:
David Hu, Juyuan Jiang
KEYWORDS:
PM2.5; Smog; Air Quality Control; Multi-Pollutant Control; Coal Combustion; Vehicle Emission; Beijing; China
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Environmental Protection,
Vol.4 No.7,
July
19,
2013
ABSTRACT:
The increased occurrence of smoggy days in major Chinese cities is of major concern to the general public.
This paper explores the major sources of PM2.5 pollutants, a key
contributor to the smog in Beijing, one of China’s largest cities. Evidence
indicates that the secondary PM2.5 particles formed through NOx,
SOx, NH3, VOCs, etc. have a strong impact on human
health. As a result, PM2.5 pollution control should not simply focus
on controlling particulate emission, but should involve adopting an integrated
multi-pollutant control strategy. In addition to identifying the major sources
of PM2.5, this paper explores its impact on environmental and human
health. Although the intention of this research is not to provide solutions for
reducing PM2.5 pollution, the paper analyzes the United States’
experience with establishing PM2.5 standards and mandates.
Specifically, this paper focuses on the air quality control strategies adopted
in California since the 1940s and draws parallels with present-day China. The
research suggests that adequate government regulation, public awareness,
regional collaboration and industrial compliance are keys to successfully
controlling PM2.5 pollution.