China's emissions are decreasing but it seems that there is no improvement. This is because of rapid changes in polar regions; sea ice is melting rapidly and snowfall is increasing. This is keeping colder air from reaching the eastern areas of China where it would usually flush out the air pollution.
In 2013 scientists used instruments that measured high levels of particulate pollution. These particles are in the air and reduce visibility, hence the smog commonly known to be in Beijing. Exposure to this can cause eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation, coughing, sneezing, and more serious conditions such as asthma and heart disease. The scientists studying air pollution in China state that tighter air quality controls can prevent up to 3 million deaths each year.
It is believed that impact of global climate change may be unique to China due to its geography and sensitive reactions towards atmospheric changes. This, more than anything, should encourage China to continue the fight against climate change with more vigor than ever. This includes reductions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases alike.
Original Article by Marlene Cimons found here: https://www.popsci.com/china-smog-changing-weather-patterns
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