China increases its environmental efforts

Putting environmental issues firmly at the heart of government plans, the Chinese government confirmed that the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) has been granted new status as a ministry, at the National People's Congress on 11 March 2008.

State Councillor, Mr. Jianmin Hua, told the conference that, "environmental protection is the fundamental policy of our country, and is crucial to the existence and development of the Chinese nation."

With environmental and pollution challenges being real concerns facing the Chinese government, both now and in the future, the new ministry is tasked with drafting and implementing environmental programmes, environmental protection policies and standards, working out environmental functions in each region of China, supervising the prevention and treatment of pollution and tackling other major environmental issues.

China began to focus on environmental issues in the 1980's. Over the years, it has moved up the government agenda and been elevated in status, particularly in relation to environmental issues that have come to light as China's economy continues to boom.

The creation of the new ministry may not provide the answers to all of China's environmental issues overnight; indeed, some claim changes at the local level may still be difficult. However, the government views this move as a positive step in its continued efforts to create a cleaner environment.

"In the past, SEPA policies were opposed by various interest groups. The new ministry could enjoy more rights in decision making," said Mr. Jinnan Wang, Vice Head of the Chinese Academy for Environment Planning.