The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit brings together leaders from different countries and inspires economic and political cooperation between them. However, despite these gains, the annual conference has also become notorious for bringing an unwelcome guest: heavy smog, known as "APEC Blue." This ominous haze blankets host cities, covering buildings and monuments with a dull gray hue, causing havoc on the health and safety of local residents. Here, we examine the APEC smog crisis, its causes, and lasting impacts.
The Origin of APEC Blue
The problem of APEC smog is most prevalent in China, with the industrialization of the country leading to a surge in pollution levels. During the annual APEC summit in Beijing in 2014, the Chinese government implemented environmental measures to cut air pollution. These measures included limiting car usage, closing factories, and shutting down construction sites.
The results were astonishing, with blue skies visible throughout the city during the conference, leading to the creation of the term "APEC Blue." However, as soon as the conference ended, the measures were lifted, leading to a return to the original, smoggy Beijing. Since then, the term has spread, with APEC Blue becoming synonymous with temporary measures to make a polluted city appear cleaner.
The Environmental Impact
Smog has become one of the most significant environmental problems affecting the Asia-Pacific region, with polluted air affecting millions of people. The issue has become particularly acute in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. High levels of pollution have severe health impacts on residents, causing respiratory problems, lung cancer, and many other diseases. Severe pollution has also led to school and workplace closures, resulting in billions of dollars of economic losses.
China, the world's largest polluter, has been aggressively moving towards renewable sources of energy in recent years. Still, the country still uses coal, which remains the primary source of energy to fuel its economic growth. While the country has experienced economic expansion, this has come at the cost of severe environmental damage.
The Need for Urgent Action
The APEC smog situation has highlighted the need for immediate action to address the environmental crisis in China and other affected countries. Governments must introduce policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt clean energy sources to reduce pollution levels.
Apart from governments, businesses and individuals also need to be part of the solution to the environmental crisis. There is a need to adopt sustainable practices, such as reducing energy consumption and using environmentally friendly products. We must raise awareness of the issue and urge everyone to contribute to making the planet a healthier and safer place.
The Bottom Line
APEC Smog, or APEC Blue, is a serious environmental crisis that we can no longer ignore. The Asia-Pacific region has a responsibility to address this problem, not just for its citizens but also for the global population. It's time for policymakers, businesses, and individuals to come together and take action to conserve our planet's environment. If we fail to act now, we will face the consequences for years to come.
