Hu Deping Addressing Air Pollution: Insights from the China-U.S. Air Purification Symposium and Dialogue with Al Gore

In March 2015, Hu Deping, the then Chairman of the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation, delivered a keynote address at the China-U.S. Air Purification Symposium. This symposium provided a platform for experts, scientists, and scholars from both countries to convene and exchange insights on air governance and purification. With a focus on the critical issue of air pollution, the symposium aimed to foster collaboration, share experiences, and discuss innovative solutions to address the challenges posed by deteriorating air quality. Notably, the event also featured a dialogue with former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, adding a distinguished perspective to the discussions. The symposium served as a crucial forum for promoting international cooperation in combating air pollution and advancing environmental sustainability.

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Good morning esteemed organizers of the China-U.S. Air Purification Symposium, Mr. Al Gore, distinguished scientists, experts, scholars, and honored guests,

As the Chairman of the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation, I am delighted to host this significant event, where both China and the U.S. come together to share experiences, insights, and recommendations on air governance and purification. Your presence here today is highly valued as we collectively explore solutions, innovative technologies, and investment opportunities related to air governance.

The quality of our planet's atmosphere directly impacts the living environment and well-being of every individual on Earth. Since the first industrial revolution in the 18th century, humanity's reliance on heavily polluting sources like coal and heavy oil, coupled with emissions from vehicles and transportation means, has led to a severe deterioration in air quality. The rapid increase in greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, has further contributed to frequent occurrences of urban smog.

Historically, cities like London and Los Angeles paid a heavy toll for industrialization and excessive pollution. The infamous London Smog event of the 20th century resulted in thousands of deaths in just four days. Similarly, Los Angeles faced a crisis with smog attacks, leading to panic, school closures, factory shutdowns, and widespread health concerns.

Over time, both the UK and the U.S. undertook extensive efforts to combat air pollution. London's persistent efforts spanned over half a century, while Los Angeles implemented stringent measures, including the Clean Air Act of 1970. These examples illustrate that controlling pollution sources is fundamental, and the process is a long-term commitment requiring collective efforts.

As a developing nation, China can draw valuable lessons from the experiences of the U.S. in tackling air pollution. Efforts to improve air quality and restore blue skies involve a multi-faceted approach:

1. Industrial Rational Layout: Strategically plan industrial zones to facilitate pollutant dispersion and mutual utilization of waste gases, reducing emissions.

2. Regional Centralized Heating: Implement efficient boilers to replace dispersed low chimneys, a robust measure in urban air pollution prevention.

3. Fuel Composition Adjustment: Gradually promote the use of clean energy sources such as natural gas, coal gas, and liquefied petroleum gas. Desulfurize heavy oil and coal for cleaner combustion.

4. Reduce Vehicle Emissions: Enhance combustion efficiency by redesigning engine combustion and improving fuel quality. Strengthen traffic management.

5. Control Toxic Gas Emissions: Reform production processes and recycle harmful industrial emissions, focusing on dust control, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxide reduction.

To effectively reduce pollutant emissions, a combination of technical, economic, legal, and managerial approaches is crucial. Examples include adjusting energy structures, preprocessing fuels to minimize atmospheric pollutants during combustion, upgrading combustion equipment for higher efficiency, and enforcing regulations on emissions from industrial sources.

China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation is committed to promoting green development, ensuring sustainable socio-economic development, fostering ecological civilization, and harmonizing the relationship between humans and nature. We are eager to contribute to the improvement of ecosystems and the construction of ecological civilization.

I encourage all participants to share their thoughts openly, exchange ideas, and provide valuable insights on air purification and improving atmospheric environmental pollution. Let this China-U.S. Air Purification Symposium be a platform for fruitful discussions and successful outcomes.

In conclusion, I extend my best wishes for the success of this forum.

Thank you.

Hu Deping

Chairman

China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation

Mar 2015, Beijing

Translator: Linda

Editor: Richard

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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