Chinese Sulphur Dioxide Emissions and Local Environment Pollution

Abstract

During the last 30 years Chinese economy has increased rapidly. The pollution of air in many Chinese cities exceeds both national and international standards due to rapid urbanization, industrialization and increased energy consumption. At present China becomes the highest sulphur dioxide emitter in the world due to its reliance on coal for energy generation. The Government of China has taken different steps to reduce sulphur dioxide and succeeded from the 11th Five-Year Plan. Breathing in sulphur dioxide can irritate the nose, throat and the lungs, causing phlegm, coughing, shortness of breath, development of bronchitis and other respiratory diseases, as well as aggravation of existing cardiovascular disease. Long-term contact to sulphur dioxide at lower concentrations can cause temporary loss of smell, headache, nausea and dizziness. In this paper an attempt has been taken to discuss sulphur dioxide emissions of China and stresses on desulphurization processes.