Subscribe now

Health

Bacteria live in China’s thick smogs and may be making it even worse

By Michael Marshall

12 January 2019

Bacteria have been discovered thriving in Beijing's smog

Bacteria are thriving in Beijing’s smog

VCG/VCG via Getty Images

Bacteria are feeding and multiplying in the severe smogs that regularly blanket Chinese cities. The microorganisms could pose a threat in themselves and may also change the composition of the haze.

China’s capital Beijing is regularly smothered in a thick, toxic haze that forms as a result of coal burning, vehicle exhausts and other sources. It is worst in winter, when weather patterns trap pollution over the city. China has cracked down on emitters, and in 2018 emissions fell 12 per cent, but there is a long…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop