Induced Rain May Wash Beijing's Pollution Away

China has announced plans to induce rain in Beijing in the days before the 2008 Olympics in an effort to clean the air. Scientists are wary about the effects of the process.

1 minute read

April 26, 2007, 11:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg

"Meteorologists say they can force rain in the days before the Olympics, through a process known as cloud-seeding, to clean the air and ensure clear skies. China has been tinkering with artificial rainmaking for decades, but whether it works is a matter of debate among scientists."

"The forced rain could also help clean Beijing's polluted air, said Wang Jianjie, another meteorologist with the bureau."

"China frequently uses artificial rainmaking in the drought-plagued north."

"Last May, Beijing boasted having generated rainfall to clear the air and streets following the worst dust storm in a decade."

FULL STORY: China to Force Rain Ahead of Olympics

Wednesday, April 25, 2007 in Associated Press

Environment China

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