Off-Grid Solar System,Solar Energy System,Solar Solution Off-Grid China Searun Solar Solution Co., Ltd. , https://www.srsolarlights.com
Zhejiang Province is currently facing a severe air pollution crisis, with several cities experiencing alarming levels of PM2.5. The issue has drawn widespread attention, especially after the National Air Quality Index list showed that multiple cities in Zhejiang ranked among the worst in terms of air quality. Despite forecasts suggesting that an incoming cold front would help clear the air, pollution levels have worsened instead, raising concerns about the underlying causes.
Greenpeace Zhejiang recently shared a list on Weibo showing the top 10 most polluted cities in China, with five Zhejiang cities making the cut. These included Jiaxing (141 µg/m³), Hangzhou (148 µg/m³), Shaoxing (173 µg/m³), Fuyang (203 µg/m³), and Zhuji (282 µg/m³). The post went viral, highlighting the severity of the situation. Meanwhile, People’s Daily reported that Shaoxing had the worst air quality among 74 cities, with an AQI of 290—classified as heavily polluted. In contrast, Beijing had an AQI of 26, indicating excellent air quality.
The data also revealed that other cities like Jinan, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Nanchang, Wuhan, Jiaxing, Xingtai, Zhangzhou, and Kunming were among the ten worst in terms of air quality. The information came from weather reports, which emphasized the role of meteorological conditions in worsening pollution.
Experts point to both natural and human factors contributing to the problem. Autumn and winter are typically high-risk seasons for air pollution, with PM2.5 concentrations often spiking during this time. Industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and agricultural activities all play a significant role. In cities like Hangzhou, traffic congestion during peak hours exacerbates the issue, leading to higher PM2.5 levels.
According to Fu, a local environmental official, the main cause was the poor atmospheric conditions. Pollutants from northern regions reached Zhejiang, but due to weak winds and the province’s hilly terrain, the air stagnated, causing prolonged pollution. Similarly, the Ningbo Meteorological Observatory noted that the slow movement of cold air led to weaker winds, allowing pollutants to accumulate.
To address the growing concern, Zhejiang has been improving its monitoring system. Since November 1st, the province has expanded its air quality monitoring network, increasing the number of stations from 53 to 153, covering every county-level city. This enhancement not only improves data accuracy but also increases transparency and public awareness.
The problem isn’t limited to Zhejiang. The entire Yangtze River Delta region has experienced poor air quality, with cities in Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Anhui also struggling with high PM2.5 levels. On November 8th, six cities in Jiangsu, including Taizhou, Zhenjiang, and Yangzhou, appeared on the national pollution list, with both the number of affected cities and PM2.5 concentrations exceeding those in Zhejiang.
Nationally, smog days have increased significantly. According to the China Meteorological Administration, the average number of smog days this year has reached 4.7, up from 2.4 in the same period last year—a record since 1961. Thirteen provinces, including Zhejiang, have seen their highest smog days in history, affecting areas across the country.
In response, the State Council introduced the "Atmospheric Governance Ten Articles" this year, and Zhejiang has pledged to take action. Draft regulations aimed at reducing air pollution are already being prepared and will be officially released soon. With ongoing efforts and improved monitoring, the province aims to tackle this pressing environmental challenge.