For the first time in 2014, China Meteorological Administration and the Ministry of Environmental Protection issued an orange alert for air quality on Friday. This is the second-highest level of air pollution for the city. The smog lasted until 27 and during the duration of the crisis, it was strongly suggested that people reduce activities outside, avoid sports in the open air, and take protective measures when necessary.
Air pollution is associated with a diversity of health problems: mostly respiratory (asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer), cardiovasuclar (clogged arteries and heart attacks), cerebrovascular (increased risk of strokes), as well as problems with childbirth. An EPA/world bank study found that morbidity and ‘excess deaths’ caused by air pollution impose costs of 4% of GDP.
We Impact tackled the smog issue with a positive attitude and action to lead a sustainable lifestyle. In addition to the sustainable management of the office, we have offices and staff’s house a home-made air-evolution installed, and for employees to buy the air filter masks.
This month, We Impact set out to reduce the carbon emissions of the company by launching their employee bike program. Employees can pledge to bike to work and receive a We Impact company bike. On February 25, Helene was the first employee to receive the company bike. She is planning to bike from her home around Sanyuanqiao to the office on Tieshuxiejie. This will not only reduce her commuting time from over an hour down to 40 minutes, but also combine commuting with a daily workout while reducing the company’s carbon footprint and hers as well. What about air pollution, you might say. Well, We Impact thought of everything and provided all employees with comfortable and efficient masks so that everyone can safely bike to work.