(BEIJING, May 14) -- This year Beijing will eliminate 2,580 old buses and 5,000 taxis to reduce air pollution, according to officials.

The new buses and taxis will meet the National Phase III emission standard and may face stricter standards in 2008, chief engineer of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Environmental Protection Chen Tian told the press. Research for the 50 electricity-powered buses to be put in use during the 2008 Olympics will accelerate, and there is a plan to add 1,000 gas stations and 1,200 oil tank cars in 2007.

Zhang Yanyou of the Municipal Commission of Development and Reform said Beijing will implement differential power and water rates. Competent authorities are working on a scheme to provide natural gas for over-quota use.

In 2007, he said, the price of energy and water will be timely regulated in order to favor resource-saving and environmental protection. In addition, an energy efficiency label will be introduced to help consumers choose energy-saving products.