The central government's upcoming action plan for air pollution control will not only improve air quality but also help upgrade China's industrial structure, according to an expert.

"Once the action plan for the prevention and control of atmospheric pollution is carried out and strictly implemented, we will witness a rapid upgrade of the industrial structure in the fields of steel, architecture, electricity and heating supply," said Chai Fahe, vice-president of the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences.

Chai made the remarks during a forum on air pollution ahead of the closing ceremony of the Eco-Forum Global Annual Conference on Sunday in Guiyang, Guizhou province.