The study examines the effectiveness of short-term and long-term emission control measures in improving air quality in China. Short-term measures, such as industrial suspension and vehicle restrictions, significantly reduced PM2.5 concentrations during international events but rebounded to pre-event levels after the measures ceased. Long-term policies, including the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan and the Three-Year Action Plan for Winning the Blue-Sky Defense Battle, led to a 54% decrease in PM2.5 concentrations in Beijing and a 23% decrease in atmospheric nitrogen deposition from 2012 to 2020. The combination of short-term and long-term measures is essential for sustainable air quality improvement, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges. However, challenges remain, such as increased ammonia concentrations, transboundary pollutant flows, and the need for synergistic control of multiple pollutants. The study highlights the importance of regional cooperation and the integration of short-term and long-term policies to achieve sustainable air quality improvements.The study examines the effectiveness of short-term and long-term emission control measures in improving air quality in China. Short-term measures, such as industrial suspension and vehicle restrictions, significantly reduced PM2.5 concentrations during international events but rebounded to pre-event levels after the measures ceased. Long-term policies, including the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan and the Three-Year Action Plan for Winning the Blue-Sky Defense Battle, led to a 54% decrease in PM2.5 concentrations in Beijing and a 23% decrease in atmospheric nitrogen deposition from 2012 to 2020. The combination of short-term and long-term measures is essential for sustainable air quality improvement, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges. However, challenges remain, such as increased ammonia concentrations, transboundary pollutant flows, and the need for synergistic control of multiple pollutants. The study highlights the importance of regional cooperation and the integration of short-term and long-term policies to achieve sustainable air quality improvements.