NGOs to get more say in environment issues

The environment ministry yesterday released a draft regulation, which allows nongovernmental groups to participate in investigations of major pollution cases.

According to the draft, unveiled to solicit public opinion, environmental protection volunteers and representatives of social organizations could be appointed as guest supervisors to keep an eye on the performance of environmental watchdogs.

China's revamped environmental protection law gives citizens and organizations the right to acquire relevant information, participate in and supervise environmental protection.

The ministry said that the draft is an effort to implement the revised law.