(CFP)

Jiangsu has gradually developed a distinctive system of compensation for eco-environmental damage since China began piloting the initiative on January 1, 2018.

In 2024, Jiangsu handled over 1,300 cases of eco-environmental damage, involving a total amount of more than 28 million yuan. Notable cases included the illegal disposal of chemical waste bins, illegal logging, air pollution from ships on the Yangtze River, and illegal landfill of construction waste.

In handling typical cases, Jiangsu has adopted innovative approaches to promote ecological restoration. For instance, in the case involving illegal discharge of hazardous waste by a metal products company in Nanjing, six employees of the company voluntarily participated in fish protection activities along the Nanjing section of the Yangtze River, fulfilling their compensation obligations.

Prosecutor Yang Xuefei from the Jiangsu Provincial People’s Procuratorate said the procuratorial organs have adhered to the principle of prioritizing protection and focusing on restoration of damaged environments. However, it’s impossible to achieve direct restoration in some cases. In response, Jiangsu has encouraged alternative measures, such as revegetation, replenishment of fish stocks, or the purchase of carbon credits.

Procuratorial organs have also been cooperating closely with police and environmental authorities to handle cases involving criminal offenses, according to prosecutor Yan Zhongliang.