China air pollution worsens in 2023, first time in decade: study

13 Sept 12:20 Key points summarised by AI

China's national average PM2.5 levels increased in 2023, marking the first year-on-year rise since its "war on pollution" began in 2013.
The worsening pollution is attributed to a combination of increased human-caused emissions, including higher coal and thermal power production, and unfavorable weather conditions.
Eighty percent of provincial capitals, including Beijing, recorded elevated PM2.5 levels, indicating a concerning increase in fossil energy use despite past significant air quality improvements.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Yesterday 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.