One interesting pilot scheme being tried out in Minnesota allows farmers who reduce fertiliser run-off and soil erosion to enjoy an exemption from future state and federal water-quality standards.

ECONOMIST: Nutrient pollution

Comprehensive early childhood programs like the Early Head Start and Head Start programs and state pre-kindergarten programs with high quality standards lead to better cognitive growth, improved behavior, better health and greater school success.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Oil companies have also been in the "eye of the storm", but the boss of state-run oil giant Sinopec says the country's oil quality standards are to blame for pollution, Economic Information Daily reports.

BBC: China media: Sex videos and houses

Tang Dagang, director of the Vehicle Emission Control Center, a policy research group also affiliated with the ministry, said pressure increased last year to tighten diesel fuel standards after the State Council, or cabinet, announced stricter air-quality rules.

WSJ: China's Pollution Fight Faces Resistance

The state plays an essential role as defender of this principle, setting standards and norms that guarantee quality and equality of opportunity.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES