If this research is accurate the results are truly shocking. Coal related air pollutants have been shown to reduce lifespans in China by over five years, according to a new study conducted by researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and three other universities. 

 It is a compelling example of the human consequences of the externalities created by intense air pollution in one of the world's fastest-growing countries. Almost half of the world's coal is burnt in China - rapid development in the north of the country has increased the incidence of strokes and lung cancer, in part connected to the distribution of free coal for burning in millions of homes. 

 The Chinese government has announced plans for a new carbon emissions trading scheme as part of a strategy to lower pollution and achieve more sustainable development. It has ordered firms in heavy-polluting industries to cut emissions by 30% by 2017

How China's love affair with pork is causing a pollution problem

Tackling Pollution in China - Economist Video - August 2013