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 JEP  Vol.4 No.7 , July 2013
A Study of Smog Issues and PM2.5 Pollutant Control Strategies in China
David Hu*, Juyuan Jiang
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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.
Keywords: PM2.5; Smog; Air Quality Control; Multi-Pollutant Control; Coal Combustion; Vehicle Emission; Beijing; China
Cite this paper: D. Hu and J. Jiang, "A Study of Smog Issues and PM2.5 Pollutant Control Strategies in China," Journal of Environmental Protection, Vol. 4 No. 7, 2013, pp. 746-752. doi: 10.4236/jep.2013.47086.
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