In a somewhat ironic twist, as Beijing tries to clean up its air in time for the Olympics, they are also attempting to portray their streets as sanitized and modern and as such, are driving the estimated 170,000 recyclers out of the city. These migrant workers from poorer areas of China are responsible for recycling a fourth of Beijing's trash and typically trade what they find to make a meager living.

Unfortunately over 70 per cent of the recyclers carry infectious diseases and over half have criminal records. One government adviser said the decision has less to do with presenting visitors with a clean image of the city and more to do with preserving safety and social order.

This move is the latest in a strong of initiatives meant to make Beijing as safe, clean and healthy as possible (at least in appearance). Several factories in neighboring regions will close to help reduce smog, leaving thousands without work for a month and starting next Sunday, roads will be closed to cars on alternate days.

» Reuters Environment