我国有望迎来更严格环境空气质量标准

Core Viewpoint - The Ministry of Ecology and Environment has released a draft for public consultation on the revised "Ambient Air Quality Standards" which aims to tighten concentration limits for particulate matter and gases like sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), indicating a move towards stricter air quality standards in China to better protect public health [1][2]. Group 1: Reasons for Revising Air Quality Standards - The current standards have led to significant improvements in air quality, with PM2.5 annual average concentration decreasing by 36% and heavy pollution days reduced by 68% from 2015 to 2024 [2]. - The revision is necessary to enhance public health protection, as PM2.5 remains the most harmful air pollutant according to WHO research [2][3]. - The revision supports the goal of achieving an average PM2.5 concentration of below 25 micrograms per cubic meter by 2035, as part of the "Beautiful China" initiative [2][3]. Group 2: Key Changes in the Revised Standards - The revised standards will tighten the secondary limits for PM2.5 annual and daily concentrations to 25 micrograms per cubic meter and 50 micrograms per cubic meter, respectively [4]. - PM10 annual and daily secondary limits will also be tightened to 50 micrograms per cubic meter and 100 micrograms per cubic meter [4]. - The concentration limits for sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide will be tightened, while limits for ozone and carbon monoxide will remain unchanged [4]. Group 3: Implementation Phases of the Revised Standards - The revised standards will be implemented in two phases: the first phase from 2026 to 2030 will introduce transitional limits for PM2.5 and PM10 [5]. - From 2031 onwards, the revised limits for particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide will be fully enforced [6]. - The transitional limits are designed to allow for a smooth implementation of the new standards, reducing short-term economic pressures while aiming for improved air quality [6].