The action plan aims to reduce total emissions of pollutants of all kinds, not just in quantity, but also concentration.

The plan contains measures to effect a major reduction of emissions, according to Wang Jian, deputy head of the pollution prevention and control department of the Environmental Protection Ministry.

One measure involves a widening of focus. The plan will continue the crackdown on larger polluters, such as steel and cement plants, but will also target all pollution sources, regardless of size, right down to small, coal-fired stoves, said Wang.