China implements world's first Ecological Environment Code

China has officially implemented the Ecological Environment Code, effective August 15, 2026. This marks the country's second major legal code following the Civil Code and represents the world's first code specifically named for ecological environment.

The legislation integrates over 30 environmental laws and various administrative regulations into a unified system. It is structured around three core pillars: pollution prevention and control, ecological protection, and green, low-carbon development. By combining these areas, the code aims to address the interconnected challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution.

Key features of the code include the institutionalization of the “community of life for man and nature” concept, establishing legal frameworks for systemic governance of mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, and grasslands. It also empowers the public through rights to information, participation, and supervision, while defining clear legal responsibilities for enterprises and citizens regarding ecological restoration and pollution mitigation.