China: Sweating it out

China’s central government ordered a day without air conditioners on Tuesday as a gesture to exhibit its resolution to cut energy consumption and improve energy efficiency.

The campaign, dubbed “experiencing energy shortage”, has drawn the participation of offices and government departments under the State Council.
Beijing was not as sun-burning as previous days on Tuesday, but the overcast weather still made people sweater in the afternoon.

Zhao Hong, who works with the State Administration of Taxation, said he supports the decision to go without the air conditioner for one day, as sweater beads oozes on his forehead.

“The campaign is just a gesture. However, after we feel for ourselves how we are going to suffer without electricity, the value and importance of energy become more real to us,” Zhao said in his office.

The campaign is seen by observers as a symbolic move to set an example of energy conservation and a sound publicity measure.

Official statistics show that China’s governmental institutions account for five percent of the nation’s total annual electricity consumption, equal to the electricity consumed annually by 800 million farmers.

“The campaign allows officials to get first-hand experience of energy shortage, which will promote them to make more sound decisions,” said Ding Yuanzhu, a professor with the prestigious Beijing University and a researcher with the National Development and Reform Commission.

People’s Daily