Beijing is implementing a set of new measures to give incentives for environmental whistleblowing and make it easier to place. Local residents will be bound by fewer constraints in reporting suspected violations of environmental laws and can expect to receive a cash award up to 50,000 yuan, that is, nearly 7,250 US dollars.

The revisions to the Regulations for Reporting Environmental Violations, which were published late April, are the latest enforcement effort of the Beijing Environmental Protection Bureau. 

According to the revisions, for serious violations, whistleblowers are required only to supply the location and the perpetrators' identity and don't have to provide visual evidence. The same apply to cases where evidence gathering involves considerable difficulties and risks.

Also, the amount of cash awards has been increased. Depending on the quality of the information supplied, locals will receive awards ranging from 200 yuan to 50,000 yuan.

Besides calling the special hotline, mailing and personal delivery, informants can log on the website of the Beijing Environmental Protection Bureau at www.bjepb.gov.cn.