Despite concern from Olympic athletes regarding the possibility that poor air quality in Beijing might negatively their performance, Chinese officials are remaining optimistic, saying the first few months of the year have boasted some the cleanest air in the city in the past decade. The city has recorded 67 "blue sky days" since the beginning of January, making it the highest number in nine years and 12 higher than last year.

Scientists and some media take these numbers with a grain of salt, questioning the methods used to determine a blue sky day and accusing officials of skewing the results to look favorable. The president of the International Olympic Committee has said certain sporting events may have to be rescheduled if the air quality is deemed too poor on the day of the event.

China is doing everything it can to ensure the air is as clean as possible come the opening ceremonies in August. Over $17.11 billion has been spent to improve conditions in the country during the past decade, and during the games, road traffic will be reduced to half the usual amount in an effort to keep the air clear of vehicle pollution.

» Reuters Environment