Factories may have to relocate to ease pollution on mainland
Air pollution continues to be a big problem in northern China and despite efforts a solution has yet to be found to get rid of the frequent haze that envelopes cities in the area.
When cities like Beijing are hit by sandstorms there is a rapid deterioration in air quality. And of course it takes a heavy toll on the health of citizens. There is increased exposure to PM2.5, the most harmful particles in the air, way above the limit recommended by the World Health Organisation.
Of course, there are good days which are free of pollution. If there is a top international sports competition in the capital, or a forum which will be attended by leaders from different countries, the central government implements policies to lower pollution levels, such as the closure of surrounding factories. But this hurts these companies’ businesses and it is impossible to estimate the economic losses for the country.
However, economic changes in the region offer the chance of an improvement. As wages have risen in China some factory owners have shifted production lines to Vietnam and Cambodia where labour is cheaper.
If more factories close and others are relocated to the west of the country, pollution levels in northern China could drop. The forced closure of these plants for special occasions proves what will happen if there are fewer factories – there will be more days with clear air and blue skies. Also, there will be improvements, if the factories that remain clean up their act and reduce emissions.
I appreciate that the problem of air pollution cannot be solved overnight. The central government must get to the root of the problem and will face huge challenges.