China is moving aggressively to tackle its air pollution. This campaign is beginning to show progress with pollution declining in most cities over the past few years. However, much work remains to be done to accomplish China’s stated air emissions goals for 2020 and 2030.

The United States has decades of experience in clean air governance in transport, energy and manufacturing sectors on the federal and state levels with outstanding results, especially in California.

As this month’s report reveals, ample opportunities exist for U.S.-China collaboration through clean air technology R&D (e.g. vehicle emissions control and air quality monitoring) and the creation of an amenable regulatory environment that encourages innovation and enforces compliance. Successful collaboration in these areas can play a pivotal role towards achieving China’s clean air goals, as well as uncovering the synergy between air quality and climate change mitigation. U.S.-China collaboration has already emerged, an example of which is the 京VI vehicle emissions standards, which drew key elements from California’s mobile source regulations.

During the reading group, we will discuss these opportunities for collaboration. In light of the California Governor Brown’s recent trip to Beijing and his call for deeper U.S.-China energy and climate ties, we are looking forward to delving into this timely topic.

This Sunday, bring your brilliant ideas, speakup, and get ready to be inspired by Mr. Tonny Xie!