Beijing pollution, specifically as it effects the air quality and water supply, has become a major concern in anticipation of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.Los Angeles Times: Olympians Air a Gripe About Beijing (March 12, 2008)
Effect on the Games
The Chinese Government claims that water and air pollution will be safely within acceptable levels by the time of the Olympics Games. However, the International Olympic Committee has said that events like cycling and distance running may be delayed due to pollution. Marathon world record holder Haile Gebrselassie withdrew from the marathon on March 10, 2008 citing concerns over pollution levels.Time Online: Haile Gebrselassie pulls out of Beijing marathon because of pollution (March 10, 2008)