The State Council Information Office held a regular press briefing on Friday detailing the upcoming Regulation on Administration of Pollutant Discharge Permits.

Institutions and companies involved in the discharge of pollutants should apply for permits and comply with them. They will be classified according to the number of pollutants they produce, emit, and the impact on the environment.

Pollutant discharging units are required to self-monitor pollutant discharge, record and submit the implementation report truthfully, and disclose information on pollution emissions.

Environmental protection authorities will supervise units' discharge strictly and the implementation of punitive measures, such as discharging pollutants without permits, excessive discharges, and evading supervision, will also be strict.

Besides, the regulation requires pollutant discharging units and regulatory authorities to disclose relevant information, allowing public supervision, and the public can report illegal units to environmental protection authorities.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang signed a State Council decree on January 24, unveiling the new rules for pollutants to improve environmental protection.

The regulation will come into effect on March 1.

(Cover image via VCG)