Innovative Domestic Markets

effort to improve air quality and there is much to be learned from other states of the world. Many regions and cities in the world are working under various acts, regulations, policies, plans or programs to improve air quality at local and regional level with a special focus on smog pollutants such as in Ontario, Canada (region/province) or Beijing, China (city). Ontarios Anti-Smog Action Plan (ASAP) 1998-2015 is a well-known example of reducing harmful pollutants by target-oriented concrete actions and unique partnership with multi-stakeholders. Keeping the fact that cleaner air is everybodys business the Ontario plan focuses on organizations, industries (manufacturing, transportation, construction, etc.), governments and individuals to work together for a healthier and cleaner environment. The government of Ontario considered the need of an up to date and more comprehensive study on smog polluters for evidence based decision making. Other than, mandatory monitoring and reporting, promotion of research and development, awareness and capacity building or public disclosure of information, Ontario government developed a strict accountability mechanism and disciplined management policy for evaluation of air quality targets and emission reduction goals.

The government also introduced an Awards Committee Framework which gives Awards to those stakeholders who prove to be innovative and benefit Ontario by making contributions to smog or greenhouse gas emissions reduction in Ontario.This Ontario plan was devised till 2015 with a flexibility in addition of more stakeholders in their Anti-Smog Accord (partners) and more stringent standards for emission reduction.

Whereas, Chinas policy frameworks are short term but consistent and flexible towards more stringent reforms in the new action plans. Considering the fact that the war against smog is not over in China, this case still provides strong evidence that tangible policy actions can lead to efficient and effective results. In each upcoming plan by Chinese Government, the challenges faced in reaching the target and lessons learnt from implementation of previous plans are considered.