"On the pollution situation, we have seen improvements, but we haven't got to the turning point yet." This is a quote from Ma Jun, who works for the Beijing-based Institute of Public and Environment Affairs. It was made in reference to China's new project that will survey the nations leading industrial polluters. Wang Yuqing, who is heading up the China Pollution Source Census, hopes to have this information available as early as next year. According to Wang, the goal of the project is not to directly penalize the polluters, through oppressive fines and taxes, but is simply a research finding mission. Once all the data is compiled, the government will then be able to make better, forward thinking policies. At least that is the idea.
The pitfalls of the project, of course, is that one has to rely on the integrity of those providing the answers. In an attempt to deter major pollution producers from being deceitful, the project managers have issued a 1-800 number of sorts for people to use if they suspect someone of being untruthful.
What are my thoughts on this issue? What, if anything would I do differently?
Well, first of all...I am a firm believer that you have to practice what you preach. I'm not sure how a government that isn't 100% honest (and I know the US government isn't perfect either...but, that's not what I'm addressing at the moment) with its citizens can expect that in return. I'm not sure how a government that allows hundreds of thousands of people to go without clean drinking water can really do to gain the respect of people. I don't know if anyone will take them seriously enough to be honest.
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the Chinese government won't need to worry about earning the respect of their citizens, they'll soon be dead from the rise in cancers and other health related diseases.
Hi Cassie,
"I'm not sure how a government that allows hundreds of thousands of people to go without clean drinking water can really do to gain the respect of people."
I agree with your comment. Plus, who is to say what will happen to the citizens who call the 800 number and "rat-out" the polluters. I use rat-out because I feel that the polluting companies will find out who told on them and would seek revenge. I know... pretty cynical, but very possible.
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