Remembering Shanghai

Shanghai, China copyright 2007 Douglas Stockdale –

One of the things that I remember most from my April trip to Shanghai was the amount of smog. At ground level while driving through the city, the smog was very noticeable.  But if you gained a high advantage point, the smog seemed to have an even greater presence.

A lot of China’s electricity is created from coal burning facilities. The rumor is that the China government restricts the coal ships from going up the river through Shanghai until after dark and then with minimal running lights. I have heard that the smog issue is another concern for the Summer Olympics next year.

When I read or hear about global warming, I instinctively remember my recent experience in Shanghai and China. Even the cosatal city that I was at for a week had the same low hanging haze all day long, every day. China has some big challenges ahead, and I hope that they can figure out a way to eliminate their coal burning electrical facilities.

Best regards,

Doug