Without careful planning, however, the extension of central heating services to the south risks more pollution because coal, the main fuel for heating in the country, is a major pollutant to the air.

Society functions like a set of dominoes. Fighting pollution in China requires the concerted efforts of all social links and when it comes down to individual cases, everyone has a part to play.

As the hazardous smoggy weather continues, people are calling for actions to change the situation. And the key is partly in their own hands. They have to help strike a balance between "living better" and "living green."

Smog is expected to disperse on Wednesday as strong wind sweeps parts of China, but it still might come next year and the year after next while factories, cars and furnaces continue to emit these particles.

With such a large population to sustain in the country, as well as large parts of environmentally fragile territory, Chinese people's dream of living like Americans currently seems a bit luxurious if they want to help preserve the eco-system.

It may be too unrealistic to rely on individuals' conscience for environmental improvement. Luckily, the government is mapping a blueprint to build a "beautiful China" by seeking a sustainable mode of development.

Everyone has the right to criticize the government for environmental concerns, but they have to take their own actions if they want change.

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