GUANGZHOU: A larger comprehensive air pollution monitoring network is expected to be set up in the Pearl River Delta region within five years. The plan awaits the approval of a key national technology project meant for regional air protection in the southern province of Guangdong early this year.

"The project, which is the nation's largest scientific and research one in terms of regional air pollution control, will, by all means, help improve air quality in the PRD area," said Li Qing, director of the Guangdong Provincial Department of Environment Protection.

The major sources of air pollution in the region will be detected after the project is completed within five years, Li said.

Air pollution, especially heavy smog, has been plaguing the PRD region, one of the most important industrial bases in the nation.

"Most importantly, a self-innovation technology system in terms of air pollution monitoring is expected to be set up after the completion of the project and we will develop a technological team consisting of young but experienced researchers," Li said.

A group of leading Chinese environment experts will also take part in the project, he said.

Li revealed that some key technology and facilities to control air pollution sources would be developed.

"The current air monitoring network in the PRD area is not in a position to detect multi-sources of air pollution. So we have to develop a more efficient system to detect all sources of air pollution," Li said.

Some 150 million yuan ($19.2 million) from the central government's budget will be earmarked for the project, according to Li.

Besides, Guangdong alone will also invest more 150 million yuan ($19.2 million) in the project.

"It has so far been the nation's largest investment in environmental protection project and all money will be used efficiently for development of state-of-the-art monitoring facilities and hardware equipment," Li said.

All cities in the PRD region will get involved in the project and a co-ordinative management system will be built, he added.

(HK Edition 03/16/2007 page6)