Building sites to shut before Olympics
Updated
![The Chinese government promised to provide clean conditions for athletes when it launched its bid for the Olympics. [AFP]](http://www.abc.net.au/ra/img/news/base/china_pollution_afp_100406.jpg?<BR> "The Chinese government promised to provide clean conditions for athletes when it launched its bid for the Olympics. [AFP]")
The Chinese government promised to provide clean conditions for athletes when it launched its bid for the Olympics. [AFP]
All building sites in the Chinese capital Beijing will be shut three weeks before the start of the Olympic Games, as the city tries to clear its skies of pollution.
Digging, pouring of concrete and outdoor spray-painting will also be banned under plans announced by the Environmental Protection Bureau.
The move follows growing concern from sporting groups and Olympic officials that poor air quality may damage athletes' health and performance.
IOC President Jacques Rogge has previously threatened to postpone certain endurance events if pollution levels were excessive.
When China bid for the Olympic Games in 2001 it promised to provide a clean environment for the athletes by the time the Games open in August.
