Tag Archives: World Heath Organization (WHO)

Shanghai to halt cement production when air pollution bad

Shanghai’s municipal government has announced that it will stop cement production when air pollution reaches ‘heavy’ or greater levels. The plan may affect at least three cement plants in the Shanghai area. The move follows a similar plan in Beijing … Continue reading

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Road traffic pollution as serious as passive smoke in the development of childhood asthma

New research conducted in 10 European cities has estimated that 14% of chronic childhood asthma is due to exposure to traffic pollution near busy roads. The results are comparable to the burden associated with passive smoking: the World Health Organization … Continue reading

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UK air pollution: why are we only now waking up to this public health crisis?

When Justin Bieber collapsed last week at the O2 arena in London and was taken to a private clinic feeling “short of breath” and needing oxygen, the rumours started flying that he had had an asthma attack. They were denied … Continue reading

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Air Pollution in Hong Kong: Restoring the Fragrant Harbour

Hazardous air pollution not only continues to plague much of China, but is now also stifling Hong Kong, the vibrant city whose Chinese name means “Fragrant Harbour.” Here is the view of Hong Kong that greeted me this weekend. It’s … Continue reading

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Worst air pollution in the world: Beijing, Delhi, Ahwaz, and Ulaanbaatar

I wake up and suck a bowl of charred asbestos through a dirty bong. Well, that’s what it feels like most winter mornings when I open the door of the fourth-floor New Delhi apartment that I currently call home. Fog-drenched … Continue reading

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China’s nightmare scenario: By 2025, air quality could be much, much worse

China’s myriad plans to deal with pollution don’t look so promising. In a research note today, Deutsche Bank analysts gloomily conclude that, barring extreme reforms, Chinese coal consumption and increased car ownership will push pollution levels 70% higher by 2025. … Continue reading

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Government fights Europe over air pollution reduction

The Government will argue in the Supreme Court this week that it has no obligation to reduce Britain’s harmful levels of air pollution within the time limits set by Europe. Nitrogen dioxide NO2 levels are dangerously high in 16 regions … Continue reading

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Smog and sandstorm engulf China’s capital

Air quality in China’s capital, Beijing, has once again hit serious levels, with thick smog and a sandstorm blanketing the city. State news agency Xinhua, quoting officials, said the pollution levels were “dangerous”. Beijing’s environment agency blamed large amounts of … Continue reading

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