Dust, one of the major aerosol constituents of the global aerosol burden, is an active component in Earth’s physical, chemical and biogeochemical cycles. In addition, dust aerosols induce adverse effects on social and economic development. A case study for the dust storm in Beijing indicated total economic loss due to dust storms ranging from 2,268.5 million RMB (US$273.3 million) to 5,796 million RMB (US$698.3 million). Increased concentrations of particulate matter in the atmosphere during dust storms can also lead to acute respiratory damage and long-term sickness such as desert pneumoconiosis.