Other Views

Most of the "temporary" measures taken during grand official events are regular measures clearly written in our environment laws; they are just not so strictly enforced after the meetings end. What China needs is not stricter environmental laws and regulations, but stricter implementation of the existing ones and a greater sense of responsibility for the well-being of ordinary people.

China Environmental News, Oct 28

The air quality is always good whenever there is a grand event. But such blue skies rely on the authorities' temporary measures to control pollution. Without firm measures to promote better air quality when there is no conference, the credibility of environmental protection efforts will be hurt.

ftchinese.com, Nov 3

It is a common wish that the clean air will continue even after the APEC meeting. To realize that, everyone needs to join hands and protect the environment. The government especially needs to normalize some of the measures taken during the conference, and strictly enforce the existing environment laws when it is over, so that the ordinary people can also enjoy breathable air even after the foreign guests have left.

cri.cn, Nov 4

People in Beijing used to see the blue sky during the 2008 Olympics, but it soon perished after the grand closing ceremony; six years later we still need special and temporary measures in order to maintain clean air for APEC. The authorities always say improving air quality is a long, difficult task, but they need to hurry before people's patience is totally consumed.

China.com.cn, Oct 21

The clean air during APEC would be impossible without the contribution and sacrifice of ordinary residents. Just like an open letter from the authorities says, the residents have shown their hospitality. It is now necessary to return their goodwill with strict environmental protection measures and better air quality after the conference.

Beijing Times, Nov 3