Chinese authorities trying to take a bite out of air pollution are busting up barbeques — the line of logic being that the outdoor grilling machines release too many “PM2.5” particles into the air.
That’s the particulate matter that’s blamed for breathing problems, Beijing barbeque busters say, as the New York Post reported. So they’ve broken up more than 500 of the open-air grills.
State-run media showed workers cutting up the metal grills, sparks flying, wardens watching — but omitted the fact that citizens are laughing. The New York Post said social media sites were filled with mocking jabs of Operation Barbeque, with posters recommending that Chinese authorities easily could find better uses of their time.
A government media spokesman said the grills were confiscated over the past three months and cut into pieces so they could never be used again.
And one environmental official said the entire process came by way of complaints from residents who said open-air barbeques emitted foul-smelling odors and heavy plumes of unhealthful smoke.
SPECIAL COVERAGE: Energy & Environment
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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