Rains-Asia Model Application to China: Policy Implications for Sulfur Control

China's continuing dependence on coal suggests a need for a cost-effective strategy to address SO₂ and acid rain impacts. Results of modeling studies show that although there are important transboundary aspects of acid rain in Asia, the majority of emissions and damages lie within China. This implies that intra-regional cooperation within China, and cost-effective sulfur control are paramount for limiting acid rain damages. This article discusses the costs and benefits of six primary and secondary control and policy options using the RAINS-ASIA and UR-BAT models. The local health benefits were estimated to be an order of magnitude larger than the ecosystem benefits at the regional level. All abatement options involve substantial costs, except intensive energy efficiency which is the most cost effective with the rate of return of almost 200 per dollar as compared to around 6 for the other options.