Bike rentals to curb pollution, ease jams

Zhang Qiang started a new career early this year - renting out bicycles at Beijing's Drum Tower.

"I am making a contribution to the green Olympic Games, as my work helps improve Beijing's traffic and air," said the 40-something Zhang.

It is not an exaggeration, as 20 of his bikes are rented daily by tourists from home and abroad. Half of his clients are Western tourists who "can easily accept this idea and enjoy cycling", he added.