Beijing has the worst air pollution of any city on the planet earth (although, Mexico City is doing is worst to take that distinction away from Beijing). The three biggest contributors to this problem in Beijing are car exhaust from over 4 million cars, coal burning, and dust storms from the Gobi desert. Winter is the worst time as the cold air creates an inversion layer and traps the pollution in the city. Many residents wear white surgical face masks especially during the dust storms. One recent such storm dumped over 50,000 tons of dust on Beijing. Big Frank was actually out taking pictures during one such dust storm and captured the pictures below. The piture to the left gives some idea of how bad the air is - and note the traffic jam. Below Beijing residents wearing their white surgical masks during a dust storm. While Big Frank had a great time in Beijing, and found the Chinese there hospitable and kind, he is glad to be once again breathing the clear air of Spokane!
[All photos: by Big Frank Dickinson]
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