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| Families suffering in Nanjing's high pollution levels. |
Large cities around the world are prone to excessive pollution that can cause serious detriments to their populations. Schools are shut down, outdoor activities are prohibited, simply breathing is a struggle, illness develops, and some people even die from the effects of pollution. As this problem permeates every country, some cities are taking the initiative and implementing programs to reduce pollution and improve the overall air quality, providing a safe, healthy environment for their citizens.
Schools closed across Nanjing, China in December 5, 2013, as pollution levels reached over 300 PM2.5 (a measurement of air
quality). The World Health Organization recommends a daily exposure to levels no higher than 20 PM2.5.
Mexico City has greatly reduced its pollution over the last decade with a movement called ProAire. Part of this program includes one day a week where no one drives a car in metropolitan areas.
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| Night traffic in Los Angeles. |
L.A. suffered from extreme pollution but has made great strides in improving its air quality. Its driving force is a program called Vision Los Angeles, which focuses on land use, transportation, and mobility.
