Data app pushes Chinese factories to cut pollution

POLLUTERS ON NOTICE: The violations of pollution standards were brought to the attention of multinational companies such as Apple, Gap and Uniqlo, which source products from the offending factories. Within a month of contacting the first 29 companies, 28 agreed to act, Ma said.

OXFORD, England: When environmentalist Ma Jun set out to tackle pollution from Chinese industries, it seemed a near-impossible task. 

Taking polluting factories to court was difficult. Factory owners were powerful, and the incentives were stronger to cut environmental corners than comply with regulations.