China had seen fewer sandy days this spring, as cold air was weak and the country's environmental protection measures began to pay off, according to China Meteorological Administration (CMA).

From March to May, which had been the country's windy season in normal years, China only had six sandy and dusty days, compared with previous annual average of 14 days, said Yang Yuanqin, a senior engineer with CMA.

Only one sandy day had been reported in Beijing this spring, while six took place in the same period of last year, according to CMA.

Yang attributed fewer sandy days to the country's continual environmental improvements, including retiring fragile land from farming and switching it to forestation.

(Xinhua News Agency May 30, 2009)