Chongqing- Chongqing's first pilot program for the classified management and control of air pollution sources under unfavorable weather conditions was officially launched at the Western (Chongqing) Science City recently, which focuses on assessing air-related pollution sources relying on the original atmospheric grid system. 

The system covers a wide range of areas of air-related pollution, like industrial enterprises, construction sites, catering, and auto repairs.

After the comprehensive study of such areas, it will establish a critical regional pollution sources map, combined with the real-time data of air quality monitoring sites, to pinpoint the source of pollution.

Specifically, the science city will rate enterprises based on pollutant emission intensity and methods, pollutant control technology, and environmental protection and management. Under adverse weather conditions, the management and control policies for A-level to C-level enterprises range from lenient to strict.

According to the relevant person in charge of the Ecology and Environment Bureau of Chongqing High-tech Zone, "we have formulated 'one source, one policy' to clarify the specific measures for emission reductions in enterprises under different levels of early warning response."

He continued, for example, if an enterprise is determined to be A-level through comprehensive evaluation, its frequency of random inspections will be reduced. Using the early warning response of level four to level one, the enterprise can independently take emission reduction measures based on the actual situation.

In addition, the science city has created an updateable rating system to encourage enterprises to improve their ratings by optimizing processes, upgrading treatment facilities, and improving environmental management levels.

Furthermore, an "early warning-push-enterprise feedback-spot check" system has also been established to handle unfavorable weather conditions in the science city.

When pollution occurs and reaches preset conditions, enterprises will receive negative weather warning messages from the system and then directly feedback on response measures in the application (app). 

"The implementation of classified management and control of air pollution sources avoids one size fits all kind staggered production under unfavorable weather conditions, encourages enterprises to fulfill their main responsibilities consciously, and achieves precise control of pollution sources," said the relevant person in charge of Ecology and Environment Bureau of Chongqing High-tech Zone. "The pilot project is currently being conducted in Shibanzhen, Chongqing's Hi-tech Zone. Next, the science city's core area will be implemented."

According to the Chongqing Ecology and Environment Bureau, the number of days with good air quality in 2021 reached a record high of 146, up 23 days compared with 2017. The Chongqing carbon market has attempted to accelerate the development of green and low-carbon technologies. 

(Zhu Qinzhuo, as an intern, also contributed to this report.)