Hebei maps out long-term plan for pollution

The government of Hebei province in North China has mapped out a long-term plan to tackle pollution.

That was in response to the recent report to the 20th CPC National Congress, which established that the national government needs to conduct integrated and systematic ecological governance covering mountains, lakes, forests, farmlands and deserts.

Officials are being urged to combine industrial structural adjustment with pollution containment, environment protection and a firm climate change response, as well as lead the way for a low-carbon and sustainable lifestyle in society.

Hebei’s government has put together a long-term plan for pollution containment, which stipulates that by 2027 the province’s average density of PM2.5 particulates matter should reach Grade-II of the air quality standard and more than 80 percent of its surface water will be rated as excellent.

Moreover, the stability of the local eco-system will be further consolidated and underground drinking water sources will be further protected. A mechanism for the development, trading, and capitalization of carbon assets will be formed as well.

From January to October, the province’s average density of PM2.5 particulates matter stood at 35 micrograms per cubic meter, a year-on-year decrease of 5.4 percent, with 221 days of good air quality.