China's Judicial System Advances in Environmental Disputes Management

An official from China’s Supreme People’s Court announced a notable reduction in environmental disputes within the nation, emphasizing that China has emerged as the foremost authority on environmental adjudication. Between June 2014 and December 2024, courts across the country resolved approximately 2.28 million initial environmental cases, with a steady decline in such cases observed since 2021.

The declaration was made by Yang Linping, vice-president of the Supreme People’s Court, during a sub-forum at the Eco Forum Global Guiyang 2025, which focused on how judicial institutions can aid in minimizing carbon emissions, controlling pollution, and encouraging green development for economic growth. The forum succeeded in attracting over 260 participants, both domestic and international.

Yang highlighted that Chinese courts have established more than 2,400 specialized organizations aimed specifically at addressing environmental cases. This extensive network has fortified China’s role as the world leader in environmental adjudication institutions, recognized for its comprehensive coverage and system of legal resources.

Alongside the formation of these specialized teams, the top court has also developed numerous judicial documents aimed at combating pollution and illegal mining, which in turn helps protect vital ecosystems, including the Yangtze River, the Yellow River, national parks, farmland, and sites of cultural significance.

Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, an assistant secretary-general of the United Nations, recognized China's significant achievements in environmental conservation over recent decades. She praised the country for consistently enhancing environmental laws and enforcement mechanisms, resulting in a robust framework for the rule of law regarding environmental issues. Mrema also indicated plans for increased collaboration with the Supreme People's Court to foster environmental justice and sustainable development through sharing information and building judges' capacities.

Wu Zhaoxiang, the chief judge of the Environment and Resources Division, reported that from 2014 to mid-2023, Chinese courts successfully concluded over 620 cases related to carbon market trading and handled nearly 60,000 pollution control lawsuits. Furthermore, the judges resolved close to 340,000 initial cases about ecological conservation and more than 660,000 disputes pertaining to resource and energy use. These statistics not only reveal the effective management of environmental cases by Chinese courts but also illustrate their proactive approach in applying judicial measures for environmental restoration.