A study put out in 2007 by National Geographic News stated that China earned the reputation of having the "highest annual incidence of premature deaths triggered by air pollution in the world. Air pollution kills about 656,000 Chinese citizens each year. The death tolls are also high with polluted drinking water,finding that 95,600 citizens are victims to the pollution.
Ironically, Beijing, China is the location for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. Much concern has been expressed about he safety of the athletes with the current air condition. One of the world's top marathoners, Haile Gebrselassie, stated that he might pull out of the Olympic Games in fear the air quality might irritate his asthma. But Coca-Cola, on the official sponsors of the Games, is highlighting China's commitment to the environment. The article, "Coke Gives Torch Relay Green Theme Amid Air-Quality Concerns" expresses that Coke is showing Chinas environment efforts during the Olympic torch relay. The International Olympic Committee is allowing Coke to choose the torchbearers, some being environmental champions from various countries. This event not only promotes Coca-Cola as making great leaps in sustainability but is highlighting China's focus and efforts to better the environment and air quality. The torch's travel route will honor work being done in each country and ending in China. There is a great deal of negativity about the Beijing Olympics, with issues such as the air quality, China's association to genocide in Darfur, and abuse in Tibet, but Coke is hopeful, stating,"We're trying to send a message of inspiration."
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