China advances legal codification with new Environmental Code

China is advancing its legal landscape through the implementation of comprehensive codes, specifically the Civil Code and the forthcoming Ecological Environment Code. This shift marks a transition from fragmented single laws to a more systematic, integrated legislative framework.

The Chinese approach to codification emphasizes constitutional leadership, integrating social values—such as the core socialist values and the concept of harmony between humanity and nature—directly into the legal text. This model utilizes a phased legislative process, such as the "two-step" strategy used for the Civil Code, to manage complex legal reforms.

Technically, these codes utilize a "general principles + sub-chapters" structure to ensure stability while allowing for flexibility through specialized laws. For instance, the Ecological Environment Code focuses on transitioning from rigid control to precise governance, specifically addressing air pollution, carbon neutrality, and local environmental concerns like restaurant smoke. In Henan Province, local authorities are preparing to implement these standards to refine atmospheric pollution prevention and enhance public health protections.