China offers 'smog insurance' to combat air pollution

Those travelling to China in future, whether for holiday or business, will now be able to benefit from "smog insurance". In the latest response to the high levels of air pollution being experienced throughout the country, insurance is being offered for those visiting the country that will pay out if the air quality index (AQI) exceeds safe levels for two or more days in a row.

Smog insurance is being offered to travellers and residents within seven Chinese cities that have been heavily affected by high levels of smog caused by air pollution. State-owned insurance firm Ping An and online travel agent CTrip have joined forces to offer the unique form of insurance, which will see those exposed to AQI levels in excess of 300 for a week entitled to a free lung check.

Air quality that reaches 300 and up on the index is deemed to be hazardous to human health and prolonged exposure can cause a number of problems, including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Those residents or visitors that have to be hospitalised due to the high levels of air pollution will receive Rmb1,500 (£145) in compensation from the insurance.

If anyone that holds a policy is subjected to air pollution exceeding the levels measured by the AQI - as happened during the winter months in Shijiazhuang - they are entitled to a free trip to the island of Hainan in order to experience some fresh air. Hainan's capital, Haikou, Zhoushan and Lhasa, Tibet's capital were the only three areas that met national air pollution standards in a survey of 74 of the nation's largest cities. 

Premiums come at Rmb10, with travellers and residents able to claim Rmb50 each day the air quality is poor.

It is hoped China's air quality will improve as spring progresses, as the heavy smog is usually only a large problem in autumn and winter, when coal-powered heating systems get switched on; resulting in high levels of particulate pollution being generated.