Beijing bans leaded petrol

Jan. 2, 1998 Beijing, one of the world's most polluted cities, has banned the sale of leaded petrol.
China outlawed leaded gas in 8 of its 18 districts and counties on June 1. The new law extends the ban throughout the capital and outlying areas.
Auto emissions and use of coal for energy make Beijing China's most polluted city and one of the smoggiest in the world, according to the U.N. Environment Programme.
A World Bank has reported that while Beijing has only one-tenth the number of cars as Los Angeles, its auto emissions are almost as great.
A recent study showed 70 % of the city's children had elevated levels of lead in their blood, which can leave them more susceptible to diseases and stunt intellectual development.
Shanghai, Guangzhou and Wuhan have also banned leaded gasoline in the past year.