Just a decade ago, Beijing was infamous for its smog-filled skies, often compared with Delhi as one of the world’s most polluted cities. While air quality in Delhi worsened, Beijing has made remarkable progress. According to data from the World Economic Forum (WEF), Beijing has reduced its PM2.5 levels by an impressive 64% and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) levels by 89% since 2013.

What sparked this transformation? The Chinese capital launched an ambitious action plan targeting coal use, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollutants, setting a global example of coordinated environmental policy.

What changed in Beijing?

Beijing’s efforts to clean its air have been systematic and far-reaching. Measures included banning new coal capacities, phasing out coal-based residential heating, and enforcing stricter emissions standards for vehicles and industries. As a result, nitrogen dioxide levels fell by 54%, and the number of “good air days” jumped from just 13 in 2013 to over 300 in 2023, according to WEF.

Angel Hsu, an associate professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, noted a huge difference during her recent visit to Beijing. “When I studied there, we’d see maybe five clear blue sky days a year. On my recent trip, the skies were clear every day,” Hsu said.

Beijing’s transformation was powered by cutting-edge technology and strict regulations. The city established a dense air quality monitoring network with 1,500 PM2.5 sensors, laser radar, and satellite systems. Older, polluting vehicles were removed from circulation, coal power plants were restricted, and public transportation infrastructure was majorly improved.

Despite these advancements, Beijing still has challenges. Air pollution levels remain six times higher than the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Scientists pointed out that some pollution originates from over 1,000 kilometers away, indicating that air quality issues are not confined to local sources alone.

Air pollution: A global health crisis

The WEF report shows that air pollution is the leading environmental threat to human health, claiming 8.1 million lives worldwide in 2021. While Beijing’s progress is commendable, it underscores the urgent need for other cities to follow suit.

As Beijing balances environmental reforms with economic growth—maintaining an average GDP growth of 6.8% annually—it stands as a powerful example that air quality improvements and economic development can go hand in hand. The question remains: will other cities take similar bold steps to combat this global challenge?