By Chang Jiwen & Wu Xiong, Research Team on “Major Issues on the Revision of the Law on the Prevention and Control of Environmental Pollution by Solid Waste”, Research Institute of Resources and Environment Policies, DRC

Research Report, Special Issue, No.80, 2019 (Total 1708)

2019-10-16

Abstract: Waste classification in rural areas in China has formed some typical models such as Jindong district model in Jinhua City of Zhejiang province, and Ningxiang city and Changsha county models in Hunan province. Under the guidance of Party organizations, local governments have, plus villagers’ governance, invited some worthies to participate in the work of waste treatment. However, there are some problems to be addressed. For instance, the related funds are deficient, environmental protection education remain to be enforced, disposal facilities are inadequate, technical support is weak, and policy and legal protection measures are to be enriched. With regard to the present policies and laws on waste treatment, it is suggested that the “Law on Prevention and Control of Environmental Pollution by Solid Waste” be amended. It is advisable for the State Council to formulate special regulations on the classification and disposal of wastes, and relevant departments to issue relevant standards and guidelines. As regards the improvement of the institutional systems, with the leading role played by the government, village collective organizations need to be responsible for coordinating work and villagers’ self-governance, and some worthies from the villages could participate in consultations and give advises on pertinent issues. In view of system construction, we need to establish and improve the system of “being responsible for general sanitation, green covering and keeping good social order in a designated area outside the unit building”. Relevant rules need to be formulated in terms of waste charges and reduction of waste, compulsory classification of waste, overall waste reduction and the cultivation of environmental protection awareness. In respect of mechanism innovation, efforts need to be made to set up mechanisms relating to fund raising, system work, operation management and the responsibility for target fulfillment.

Key words: waste classification, centralized disposal, rural areas, modes