China took a major step towards green modernization Saturday as its landmark Ecological and Environmental Code came into force, strengthening the legal foundation for harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

Adopted by China's top legislature in March, it is the country's second formal statutory code after the Civil Code.

The code comprises 1,242 articles in five chapters, covering pollution control, ecological protection and green, low-carbon development, among other areas.

It was formulated through systematic integration, compilation, revision and refinement of over 30 ecological and environmental laws, over 100 administrative regulations and more than 1,000 local laws and regulations.

China also celebrated its fourth National Ecology Day Saturday under the theme "Building a green foundation for Chinese modernization."