In an effort to curb pollution in the build up to the Olympic games China has experimented by pulling 1.3 million cars off the streets of Beijing each day over a four day period in an effort to reduce emissions by 40%.

Experts said the air quality during the test was rated as ‘fairly good’. During the test 200,000 extra people used the city’s subway system.

It is also hoped that pollution and congestion in Olympic City will be eased further by the availability of 50,000 bicycles for rent at 230 outlets close to subway stations, commercial districts, Olympic venues, hotels and office buildings as well as in big communities.

Beijing Bicycle Rental Services has so far put 5,000 bikes for rent at 30 franchise outlets. Bicycles can be hired at one outlet and dropped off at another.  

8/21/2007 8:46:29 AM UTC