Satellite derived PM2.5 trends in China, 2000 - 2014

PM2.5 refers to atmospheric particulate matter (PM) that have a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers. PM2.5 levels have been increasing from 2000 in China (red line). A decrease jump can be found after the 2008 Beijing Olympics due to the environmental protection policies. However, a very obvious increasing trend can be found both before and after the 2008 Beijing Olympics.