A statistical model to evaluate the effectiveness of PM2.5 emissions control during the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games

A statistical model was developed using satellite remote sensing data and meteorological parameters to evaluate the effectiveness of air pollution control measures during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Custom satellite retrievals under hazy conditions were included in the modeling dataset to represent the air pollution levels more accurately. This model explained 70% of the PM2.5 variability during the modeling period from June to October 2008. Using this tool, we estimate that the aggressive emission reduction measures alone effectively lowered PM2.5 levels by 20–24 μg/m3 or 27–33% on average during the Games period, which is substantially greater than those reported previously. Since parameters required to develop this model are readily available in most cities of the world, it can be quickly applied after other major events to evaluate air pollution control policy.

► We developed a statistical model of PM2.5 during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
► Our model includes satellite remote sensing data as major predictors.
► Our model suggests that emission control resulted in a 20–24 μg/m3 PM2.5 level reduction.
► Our model can be applied to other large cities in the world.