Beijing Pollution Isn't Getting Worse: Report

Steven Schwankert | Apr 14, 2014 11:00 am | 5 comments | 3332 reads

Good news bad news: Beijing's pollution hasn't gotten worse over the last five years. But it's also not getting any better, according to analysis of a five-year US Embassy data release by The Wall Street Journal.

That average reading of Particulate Matter (PM 2.5) for the total period from when data was first collected and released in 2008 until now is 100. That level is still four to six times higher than levels considered normal by organizations such as the US Environmental Protection Agency and the World Health Organization.

The worst hour during the five-plus year period was 11pm to midnight on Jan 23, 2012, which coincides with that year's Spring Festival celebrations, and especially the accompanying fireworks. PM 2.5 readings spiked to 994. The worst day was Jan 12, 2013, when the 24-hour average reading was 569, the highest day on record so far.

Read the whole story here and see all of the Beijinger's pollution coverage here.

Photo: Tom Arnstein

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ohdjango's picture ohdjango Submitted by Guest on Mon, 04/14/2014 - 19:30

Steven Schwankert wrote:

And yet all of you stay here. Why would anyone live in a place where they believe their health is being damaged, their eyes burn, and their children's health is at risk?

Are we to take it that you don't buy into all that hippy crap which says that the air in Beijing is harmful to your health?

The Equalizer's picture The Equalizer Submitted by Guest on Mon, 04/14/2014 - 13:48

I'm glad I read this, I feel healthier already. Seems all the foreigners here have a vivid imagination then and Its about time I realize the burning sensation in my eyes is only a vivid part of my imagination.

All information stated by this poster is for informational purposes only. The content should not substitute you seeking psychiatric advice should you have a problem with it.

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