Article: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-56399267
This Monday China was hit with what is being referred to as “the worst sandstorm in a decade”. There was an extreme spike in pollution levels at 160 times the recommended limit. The storm caused flights to be cancelled, outdoor activities to be halted, and many individuals reported feeling unable to breath. Beijing issued a yellow warning in an effort to encourage citizens to wear masks and recommended the suspension of outdoor activities. This sandstorm was ultimately a result of strong winds coming from Mongolia.
Historically, Beijing experienced many regular sandstorms; however, pollution reduction projects have improved air quality and reduced the number of storms. Sandstorms that are caused by wind, like in this case, are more difficult to control or reduce. Still, this storm was worsened by the recent increases of pollution.
As we discussed in class, a state is affected by their geography and situations that are not controllable as a result of their location. The sovereign territory of China is more prone to sandstorms, and is an uncontrollable barrier to their success. There are only a few options to overcome geographical and natural challenges: the state can live with the geography and try to find solutions or the state can find better geography through expansion. The expansion as a direct result of this sandstorm is unlikely.
This is significant to the entire region, especially those with weaker structures in place. China is strong economically and likely won’t suffer a big hit from this one event. Still, one thing that could be seen in the future is China taking more steps towards preventative measures. For example, China could move towards greener energy sources to reduce sandstorms. This would have an effect on the energy market if China moved away farther from oil and natural gas. The concern for other countries, specifically the US, would be their significant power increase if China could make this change. This is all speculation, but it will be interesting to see in the coming months and years if China makes moves towards greener energy sources to try to improve the living conditions that their location forces it to.