A Review of Air Pollution Control in Beijing: 1998-2013

Since 1998, Beijing has prioritized air pollution control and moved aggressively to control emissions from all sources. The city’s efforts in this endeavour over the past 15 years is comprised of several elements — scientific research (emission inventories, monitoring and modelling), coordination (multiple pollutants, all sectors, and join efforts with neighbouring provinces), and the development and implementation of cost-effective control measures.

The aim of the report is to assess the effectiveness of the air pollution control measures and to summarize the city’s experience in air pollution control. Chapter 1 is a background and introduction to the report.  Chapter 2 reviews the historical trend of ambient air quality in Beijing from 1998 to 2013. Chapter 3 discusses the various air pollution control and prevention measures implemented in Beijing. Chapter 4 assesses the effectiveness of air pollution control measures implemented in Beijing by evaluating the emission reduction benefits. Chapter 5 looks at achieving air quality goal during special events. Chapter 6 summarizes the city’s experience in air pollution control and outlines its direction on air pollution control.