China calls for cleaner tomb sweeping

Chinese government on Monday urged people to practise "civilized and low-carbon" memorials for the dead ahead of Tomb-Sweeping Day in early April.

The Ministry of Civil Affairs has advocated a modern collective ceremony for memorizing the departed or "green" online memorial services for the traditional holiday, which is often marked by large-scale burning of incense and fake paper money, common tributes for the dead.

Many people also burn incense and paper in urban streets, which leaves much municipal refuse and worsens the air quality.

The ministry also asked local authorities to reform the funeral system and supervise funeral service providers' pricing.

It also asked them to ensure safety and avoid stampedes and any other accidents during the three-day holiday, which begins on April 5 this year.