China: Eight northern cities fail air quality tests

Event

Local authorities announced on Monday, December 11, that eight northern Chinese cities had failed to meet air quality standards in the months of October and November. The cities of Jincheng and Changzhi (Shanxi province), Jining and Heze (Shandong province), and Kaifeng, Puyang, Zhengzhou (Henan province) all failed to reduce the levels of air pollution in the form of breathable particles (known as Fine Particles PM 2.5). Authorities are also concerned that forecast weather conditions in the next three months will make it more difficult to clear pollution.

Context

Pollution alerts have become common in China's northern industrial heartland, especially during winter when energy demand skyrockets. Due to gas shortages, the Ministry of Environmental Protection has had to partially lift its ban on burning coal for household power generation, raising fears that air pollution will increase. The government has also blamed "unfavorable weather" for much of the pollution, with high humidity and low wind speeds preventing the dispersal of air pollution.

Advice

Individuals present in affected regions are advised to monitor the situation via local media, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and refrain from nonessential outdoor activities when pollution levels are elevated. Pollution can be particularly problematic for vulnerable individuals, such as children, seniors, pregnant women, and people suffering from asthma and other respiratory issues. If experiencing breathing difficulties, do not hesitate to seek medical attention, particularly if new symptoms appear (e.g., cough, sore throat, irritated eyes).​