Cities Face Enforcement Action Over Air Pollution Violations and Regulatory Failures

China's environmental inspectors criticized authorities in Inner Mongolia and Shandong for poor air pollution control. Cities allowed polluting industries without limits and failed to enforce emission upgrades. The inspection, led by ministerial-level officials, is ongoing.

Wuhai, Inner Mongolia, with numerous coal and coking operations, consistently ranked lowest in air quality. Despite a 2020 plan, Wuhai failed to enforce stricter production limits. Inspectors found illegal capacity increases, outdated production methods, and a lack of ultra-low emission facilities. This led to increased emissions and illegal pollutant releases. Companies faced penalties, including one for exceeding emission limits and improper waste disposal. Inspectors cited government negligence as the cause.

Similar violations occurred in Shandong. Zibo lime producers failed to control dust. Dezhou had an unauthorized steel production facility. Inspectors found insufficient progress in both cities, citing weak accountability and severe pollution issues.