China's life expectancy grows, pollution increases

The average life expectancy in China will soar to 85 years – up from the current 72 years – by mid-century, a result of continually improving living standards, Reuters reported. A report issued by 184 Chinese academics warned a growing population could increase environmental problems that are a risk to China's sustainability, including increased air, water and land pollution from factories, vehicles and coal-burning power plants. Last week, the State Environmental Protection Administration announced that China missed government-set targets to cut pollution by 2% in 2006, state media reported. Instead, China increased sulphur dioxide emissions by 1.8% and water pollution by 1.2% compared to 2005.