The Sky Is Not Falling: Pollution In Eastern China Cuts Light, Useful Rainfall
Sunday, August 16, 2009 - 23:28
in Earth & Climate
New research shows that air pollution in eastern China over the past 50 years has decreased the yearly number of days of light rainfall by 23 percent. The study links for the first time high levels of pollutants in the air with conditions that prevent the kind of rainfall critical for agriculture. The results suggest that bad air quality might be affecting the country's ability to raise crops as well as health and the environment.