Taizhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

Taizhou in East China's Zhejiang province has witnessed a significant improvement in its air quality during the first three quarters of this year, according to data released by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment on Oct 16.

The comprehensive air quality index (AQI) for Taizhou was recorded at 3.71, ranking it third in the province and 14th among 168 major cities nationwide. According to monitoring data, the air quality in Taizhou during the first three quarters of this year was good on 95.6 percent of days, representing a 0.7 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Over the nine-month period, the average concentration of PM2.5, a key indicator of air pollution, was measured at 22 micrograms per cubic meter, while PM10 concentration averaged 40 micrograms per cubic meter. In addition, the average concentration of ozone stood at 135 micrograms per cubic meter, indicating a 5.6 percent reduction from the previous year.

These improvements have been attributed to Taizhou's proactive implementation of its strategy to safeguard the environment. The local authorities have diligently focused on combating pollution during adverse weather conditions, preventing ozone pollution, and controlling pollution stemming from diesel trucks.

In addition, measures have been taken to curtail pollution and carbon emissions, enhance the coordinated management of PM2.5 and ozone, and promote the joint regulation of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. As a result, the overall air quality in the city has continued to improve.