International Journal of Environmental Science and Development

Abstract—In 1952, London was enveloped by poisonous smog and caused 12,000 deaths, which triggered the British government established comprehensive air pollution governance. In Beijing, people have experienced unhealthy levels of air pollution for over 20 years. To improve Beijing air pollution governance, the study examines the air pollution characteristics of Beijing and utilises a benchmarking approach to identify where improvements are warranted. London is selected as a benchmarking partner to examine how it achieved its outstanding performance on air pollution mitigation. The benchmark criteria across pollution characteristics and levels, regulations, public participation, promotion of alternative energy are applied in comparing the performance of air pollution mitigation in both London and Beijing. By working out the gaps between London and Beijing, the weaknesses and recommendations in air pollution governance in Beijing can be identified, including upgrading air quality monitoring network, improving air pollution legislative framework, establishing new administrative departments for efficient law enforcement and distinct liability, raising the standards for vehicles and fuels, promoting public participation and low-carbon life.

Index Terms—Air pollution governance, benchmarking, legislative framework, public participation.

D. Tang is with the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia (e-mail: henrytang0910@gmail.com).

[PDF]

Cite: D. Tang, "A Comparison of Control Methods of Air Pollution in London and Beijing," International Journal of Environmental Science and Development vol. 10, no. 5, pp. 141-150, 2019.