The Olympics are already having a positive effect on Beijingers. Now they got a taste of how much better life is with cleaner air and less traffic congestion, they want it to remain that way.

According to the BBC, Beijing residents are increasingly vocal about keeping the emergency measures introduced to improve the air quality during Olympics. A survey conducted by the Beijing News found that nearly 70% respondents are in favor keeping the traffic restrictions. There are even reports of people protesting the re-opening of a trash incinerator within the city.

"Citizens' expectations have already been driven up by the Olympics," said city official Tan Zhimin.

Will the measures remain? Probably not in the short term. They like the wealth that comes with the traffic and pollutants to give that up.

Longer term though, Beijing will probably do what most wealthy nations do: Ship their trash and pollutants to poorer parts of the country to be dealt with.

Listen to NPR's report.