U.S. to share air pollution managment strategies with China

Smog in Beijing in 2011 (Credit: egorgrebnev, via Flickr)

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency intends to share air pollution management strategies with China, Reuters reported.

The announcement arrives after several incidents of severe air pollution in China, including the October shutdown of Harbin due to an atmospheric particulate matter reading of over 1,000. The Chinese public has responded to the incidents with ongoing civil unrest. EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy likened the public outcry to similar controversy that took place in the United States prior to the creation of the EPA in 1970.

China already uses U.S. technology at their air monitoring facility in Beijing, a location McCarthy was scheduled to tour during her visit to the country starting Dec. 9. McCarthy said accessible, accurate air quality information is vital as China strives toward their environmental goals.

Image: Smog in Beijing in 2011 (Credit: egorgrebnev, via Flickr)