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Unit 7 Case Study

Beijing faces severe air pollution due to industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and coal burning, leading to significant health and environmental impacts. The city has implemented strategies such as coal reduction, vehicle restrictions, and air quality monitoring to combat pollution. Despite improvements, ongoing efforts are necessary for sustainable air quality management, which could serve as a model for other polluted cities globally.

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75 views2 pages

Unit 7 Case Study

Beijing faces severe air pollution due to industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and coal burning, leading to significant health and environmental impacts. The city has implemented strategies such as coal reduction, vehicle restrictions, and air quality monitoring to combat pollution. Despite improvements, ongoing efforts are necessary for sustainable air quality management, which could serve as a model for other polluted cities globally.

Uploaded by

حنا قریشئ
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Case Study: Air Pollution in Beijing, China

1. Introduction

Beijing, the capital of China, is one of the most polluted cities in the world due to industrial
emissions, vehicle exhaust, and coal burning. The city frequently experiences hazardous air
quality levels, leading to severe health and environmental consequences.

2. Causes of Air Pollution in Beijing

Cause Explanation
Beijing has numerous factories and power plants that burn coal, releasing
Industrial
pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate
Emissions
matter (PM2.5, PM10).
Vehicle Beijing has over 6 million vehicles, emitting carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen
Exhaust oxides (NOₓ), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Many homes and industries rely on coal for heating and electricity, releasing
Coal Burning
SO₂ and PM2.5, which contribute to smog.
Weather Low wind speeds and temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the
Conditions ground, worsening smog.

3. Impacts of Air Pollution in Beijing

Impact Explanation
High levels of PM2.5 cause respiratory diseases (asthma, bronchitis,
Health Effects lung cancer), heart diseases, and reduced life expectancy. In 2013, air
pollution caused around 1.6 million deaths in China.
Environmental Acid rain from SO₂ and NOₓ emissions damages crops, forests, and
Damage water bodies.
Reduced Visibility Smog reduces visibility, causing transport disruptions and flight
(Smog) cancellations. In 2013, Beijing declared a red alert due to extreme smog.
Pollution reduces labor productivity, increases medical costs, and
Economic Losses
discourages tourism. China loses $38 billion annually due to air pollution.

4. Management Strategies

Strategy Implementation
The government closed coal-fired power plants and shifted to renewable
Coal Reduction
energy (solar, wind, and hydroelectric power).
- License plate restrictions limit cars on the road on certain days. -
Vehicle
Promotion of electric and hybrid vehicles (e.g., subsidies for EVs like Tesla
Restrictions
and BYD).
Air Quality The Beijing Air Quality Index (AQI) system provides real-time pollution
Monitoring data, helping residents take precautions.
Green Initiatives Increased urban forests and green spaces to absorb carbon dioxide and filter
Strategy Implementation
pollutants.
The Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan (2013) set strict
Stronger Laws
emission limits for industries and vehicles.

5. Conclusion

Beijing's air pollution crisis highlights the dangers of rapid industrialization without
environmental controls. While coal reduction, vehicle restrictions, and green energy have
improved air quality, further efforts are needed to ensure long-term sustainability. The success of
these measures could serve as a model for other polluted cities worldwide.

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