Editor's note: Air pollution has become one of the most serious problems facing China, the world's second largest economy. What can we do to tackle the air pollution in China? Our forum readers offer their perspectives and suggestions. You are also welcome to join us for discussions.

Seneca (US)

At first, I used to think Chinese people are tolerant and take their own measures to protect themselves against the health hazards of foul air, but I have come to realize that meekness is a weakness: The more Chinese pedestrians do to filter the suspended particles in the air with the help of face masks, the less motorists have to do. It is a free ticket for them to pollute the air.

In Europe in the 1970s, people learned to live without cars and motor bikes. The governments banned motor travel on certain days. The air was miraculously cleaner. Today, while more people own cars, fewer travel routinely. Many more commute by public transport. China is going the opposite way: more and more people driving their own motor vehicles.