Beijing's Air Is Cleaner-ish

So there's an interesting article on the NYtimes.com discussing the air pollution of Beijing and how, despite what everyone may think, the air pollution is actually starting to clear up. According to a government study, the number of "blue-sky days" enjoyed by Beijing thus far this year is up to 221, which is the highest number seen since records have been taken. I still believe "I-can-actually-see-the-building-next-door days" would have been a more accurate title here, but I suppose it doesn't have the same ring as "blue-sky days." The important thing though is the pollution is getting better- only two days with dangerously high pollution levels! Whoop!

The article also states that the whole even/odd license-plate road exclusion policy in effect during the Olympics is going to be modified to a permanent version that will ban one in five daily to help reduce traffic congestion. How lovely!

Anyways, the article is an interesting read if you've got time for it. I just wonder how the improved air is going to effect the crazy sunsets Beijing gets from time to time. Check out this photo I took near XiZhiMen- would the sky have looked anything like that if the sky wasn't replete with pollution? Do we really want to lose out on this man-made beauty?

Finally, here's a great link to a funny video from the onion.com about China and its pollution- enjoy!