Green steps can pave the way for bluer skies

The air pollution index, which measures the atmospheric PM 2.5 concentration, once again moved into the unhealthy territory for a few days last week. The inclement weather and the all-enveloping haze made me nostalgic for the white clouds that engulfed the city's skyline two weeks ago.

But watching clouds is something of a luxury in Beijing, a city that boasts of world-class capabilities in skyscrapers, restaurants, talents etc, with clean water and air being the sole exceptions.

Even as the orange hue descended on me, I could not help wondering as to how many individuals actually consider the environment when they make individual choices like purchasing a car. Not surprisingly, automotive exhaust is the main culprit for air pollution and exceeds even the emissions from burning coal.