Environmental protection in China

China's environmental protection policy plays an important role in improving the quality of people's lives. As china's population grows and living standards improve, the volume of waste created has become an issue of great concern for the government. Although disposing of waste is expensive , the Chinese have recognized the need and urgency of fighting pollution. The Constitution of the People's Republic of China states that the government must protect and improve the environment by eliminating pollution and other public hazards. As part of its environmental protection policy, the government encourages afforestation and the protection of forests. The government also focuses on the prediction, prevention and eradication of pollution throughout the country .Special attention has been given to the protection of rivers. lakes, reservoirs, and aquifers.

The Anti-pollution Law, the Forest Law, the Land Law, the Law for the Protection of Wild Animals and Plants, the Mining Law and the Clean Water Act are examples of the government's efforts to protect the environment. By the end of 1993,the Chinese government had employed 81,000 people to implement its policies, In addition,290 stations with 33,000 employees have been set up to monitor the environment. Of the existing conservation areas in China, ten have been listed by the UNESCO as part of the international network of "Man and Biosphere Protection" The number of state -level natural conservation areas has grown to seventy-seven. Abnormal deaths or instances of disease among plants and animals are investigated and reported.

The shortage of funds and limited technology as well as the large amount and many types of pollutants released make environmental protection difficult. The Chinese government has promised further investment and effort. A closer cooperation on the international level is called for.