TED Talks Daily How China is (and isn't) fighting pollution and climate change | Angel Hsu
Aug 29, 2018
Angel Hsu, an environmental data scientist focused on air pollution and climate policy, sheds light on China's dual role as the largest polluter and a burgeoning leader in clean energy. She discusses how social media ignited public outcry for transparency regarding air quality, leading to shifts in consumer habits. Hsu highlights significant government actions against coal, revealing signs that coal consumption may have peaked. With rapidly deployed renewable resources and a new wave of environmental awareness, she examines the global implications of China's actions on climate leadership.
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When Data Didn't Match Reality
- Angel Hsu describes a friend in Urumqi who saw clean AQI numbers but thick smog outside.
- This mismatch revealed that authorities were not measuring PM2.5 and sparked public distrust and demand for transparency.
Public Push Created Visible Responses
- Angel Hsu recounts cultural responses: stores selling air purifiers and a mascot called AQI girl in Shanghai.
- These examples show how public awareness turned into visible consumer and government communication efforts.
A Viral Documentary Shifted Public Opinion
- Hsu cites the 2015 documentary Under the Dome, which amassed 100 million views then was pulled by authorities.
- The viral film galvanized public outcry by claiming one million premature deaths a year from air pollution.
