China's Environment and Ecology Code Compilation Progressing Steadily

China's Environment and Ecology Code Compilation Progressing

The compilation of China's environment and ecology code is progressing steadily, with drafts of various sections already undergoing feedback from different industries. This update comes from an official of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature.

Over the past year, Chinese lawmakers have diligently gathered research materials from both domestic and international sources. They have also considered theoretical outcomes and monitored practical developments both within China and abroad. This comprehensive approach has led to the drafting of several sections of the code, according to Huang Haihua, an official with the NPC Standing Committee's Legislative Affairs Commission.

The drafts are currently undergoing further revision and optimization, following in-depth research and deliberation on various frameworks concerning the code's structure, key issues, and operational mechanisms.

This compilation, along with the formulation and amendment of several other environmental laws, aims to implement Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization. This concept, promoted by President Xi, advocates for balanced and sustainable development with a focus on the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature.

If passed, the code will become China's second piece of legislation to be officially titled a "code." The first law with this designation since the founding of New China in 1949 was the Civil Code, which regulates civil activities and took effect in January 2021.

With environmental issues expected to be discussed during the two sessions, the NPC Standing Committee has accelerated its legislative efforts to address public concerns in the field that have arisen in recent years.

Recent data from the NPC Standing Committee showed that six new laws were adopted last year, one of which was China's first Energy Law, which took effect on January 1st.

The law highlights energy security, requiring governments, enterprises, energy users, and other entities to establish a comprehensive energy security responsibility system to enhance risk prevention and mitigation measures in the energy sector.

Last year, the NPC Standing Committee also reviewed a draft law on national parks to better address urgent issues such as the lack of a legal framework for planning, establishment, protection, management, and supervision.

In addition to enriching its legislative toolbox, China's handling of environmental cases has improved. The Supreme People's Court announced late last year that the number of environmental adjudication divisions, including panels and tribunals, has grown to over 2,800, up from 134 in 2014. This makes China's judicial system the most extensive of its kind globally.