China unveils new anti-pollution steps

China has announced that Beijing is to close factories, suspend construction work and force heavy polluters to cut emissions in order to prepare for the Olympics.

China has also stepped up security measures on hotels, entertainment outlets, key government offices and major gas and oil pipelines.

Pollution regulations will cease the work of cement manufacturers, concrete mixing plants and limestone production facilities in southeastern Beijing.

The head of the Olympic Committee said that he is not worried about the health of the athletes participating in te games, but did mention that some performances may be hindered. Some athletes are planning to wear masks during endurance events, while some are just planning to skip the games all together.

Businesses that are participating in the shutdown will be omitted from pollution emissions charges.