Africa urged to follow China's example and go the greener route

The United Nations' environment agency has urged African governments to shift policies toward promoting greener modes of transportation, citing the example set by China.

Erik Solheim, the head of the UN Environment Program (UNEP), said air pollution in the continent is the biggest threat from rapid urbanization, adding that governments need to encourage alternative, cleaner solutions that have been successfully implemented in other countries.

"We can learn but not copy," he said, pointing out that China is building eco-cities and is extensively using electric bikes that provide low-cost, energy-efficient and emission-free transportation.