Environmental issues are becoming a growing concern in China, and officials there seem ready to begin addressing them.
"In discussions for the post-Kyoto global climate treaty, China now accepts the need for mandatory targets to reduce greenhouse gasses, but with the condition that stricter rules should be applied to developed countries."
"According to the World Bank, of the 30 most polluted cities in the world, 20 are in China."
"Each year more than 400,000 people die of pollution-related illnesses."
"The Chinese government has started to act on these issues, mainly because environmental damage poses a threat to the economic growth of the country."
"Last year the Beijing Olympics served as a platform for the Chinese government to show the world that it cares about the environment."
"The measures adopted during the Olympics, although limited in their reach, proved the country is capable of fighting against its environmental problems if there is political will."
FULL STORY: Can China be green by 2020?
To Fight Climate Change, Support Public Transit
Electric cars may garner a lot of attention these days, but significantly reducing carbon emissions and urban congestion means investing in high-quality mass transit.
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The environmental gains at the beginning of the pandemic were only temporary., and there are signs more signs every day that the economy will be dirtier than ever in the future.
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Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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