As global leaders meet in Durban, South Africa in hopes of drafting a new international climate treaty, the spotlight once again shines on China as many of its cities have fallen dark under a grey cloud of smog. Although not a new occurrence in China, the smog levels this time have closed highways across many provinces and grounded more than 300 flights in the capital of Beijing. The smog is also causing great concern among residents over the damage that the pollution maybe doing to their health. However, there are no official Chinese studies of the air quality, leaving the only measured levels to a monitor atop the US Embassy. Because of social media blockages no one in China has access to what the embassy readings are. State-owned Chinese media is only reporting the smog as “heavy fog.” Despite calls for China to reduce emissions, pollution levels are increasing quickly. And even though seeing residents wearing facemasks is a common sight, people seem to be accepting the government’s ‘fog’ explanation. For the time being, only expats living in China are voicing their anger over the smog.
China’s pollution not ideal for all travelers
Travelers with respiratory problems should carefully consider whether China is a safe destination. In major cities, such as Beijing, the air quality levels are beyond the worst experienced in the biggest American metropolitan centers. Even on ‘good’ days the air quality in parts of China can cause health problems. If travel to China is in the plans, be sure to pack a facemask and seek hotels with air filters.
