EPA, Shanghai Launch AirNow International

Washington, DC - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Shanghai Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) have launched AirNow International, with real-time air quality data reporting from the 2010 World Expo. The Shanghai EPB will use technology developed by EPA to send air quality data to Shanghai citizens through the Internet.

"AirNow has been an extraordinary tool for helping the public understand air pollution in the United States," said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and Radiation. "We're pleased to be working with Shanghai to use this technology to make real-time air quality data available in China."

EPA and Shanghai EPB developed AirNow International, building on Shanghai's existing air quality monitoring network and capability in analyzing air quality data. EPA provided technical assistance to Shanghai, a city of more than 17 million people, to begin reporting the data to the public as it becomes available.

AirNow International is one of the many ways EPA is working with the Chinese government to address key environmental issues in both countries. EPA and China's air quality collaboration includes advanced air quality modeling to better understand air pollution sources and reducing emissions from vehicles, power plants and other industries. The two countries also are working together to address issues related to climate change, water, toxics, solid and hazardous wastes, and environmental governance.

EPA's AirNow program has steadily expanded in its 11 years. The program provides air quality forecasts and real-time data reporting for nearly 400 U.S. cities.

SOURCE: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency