China and South Korea have announced a collaboration to look at ways to solve the increasing air pollution problem. During a meeting between the environmental ministers of China, South Korea and Japan, the joint venture between Seoul and Beijing was formed. An environmental research center will be headquartered in Beijing. The goal will be to assess the extent of the air quality issues and look at new technologies that can reduce emissions in the region
Korea has become more aware and more impacted by the pollution problem as fine dust particles from factories and diesel vehicles in China wafts into cities in Korea, compounding their own issues. The average levels of airborne fine dust in China were more than five times the limits set by last year's World Health Organization guidelines, so the problem needs to be dealt with sooner rather than later.