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Beijing Battles Rare Smog Spike After Cleanup Efforts
18 Dec
Summary
- Beijing's AQI reached 215 on December 18, 2025, a rare pollution spike.
- Beijing reduced pollution via industry relocation and clean heating.
- Delhi's pollution crisis sparks debate on adopting Beijing's methods.
On December 18, 2025, Beijing faced a significant smog event, with its Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to 215, a level considered "very unhealthy." This rare resurgence of heavy pollution occurred despite substantial government efforts and investments aimed at improving air quality in recent years. The city had previously implemented stringent measures, including relocating heavy industries and transitioning public heating systems from coal to natural gas or electricity, which had led to marked improvements.
Beijing's recent pollution challenges come as New Delhi grapples with its own severe air quality crisis, prompting comparisons and debates about potential solutions. China's embassy in New Delhi highlighted its past successes, such as shutting down over 3,000 heavy industries and relocating major steel producers, as examples for India. While some sources of pollution overlap, observers note significant differences in drivers, geography, and seasonal impacts between the two cities.
Despite Thursday's smog, Beijing's environmental authorities reported a significant year-on-year decrease in average PM2.5 concentrations in the preceding months, alongside an increase in good air quality days. The city's long-term environmental initiatives, including promoting new energy vehicles and green business practices, have also contributed to improved biodiversity, with sightings of rare bird species reported.
