China’s capital follows the suit of another Chinese mega-city, Shanghai, and plans to unfold a full-scale mandatory municipal solid waste (MSW) segregation plan in May 2020. As expected, the measure will include fines of up to RMB 200 (approx. EUR 27) for individuals failing to distinguish between recyclable, organic, hazardous and other waste. In addition, a ‘bring-point system’ is expected to be introduced for household appliances and home furniture. Disposable plastic boxes and bags are also under scrutiny, as delivery companies, hotels and restaurants will not be allowed to use them anymore.
China issues National Climate Plan for 2026–2030
On 27 July 2026, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) and 18 other national authorities jointly issued the “National Climate Change Plan for the 15th Five-Year Plan Period”. The plan covers the period 2026–2030 and addresses mitigation, adaptation, carbon markets, product carbon footprints and climate governance.
The plan builds on the objectives of the general 15th Five-Year Plan (FYP) for National Economic and Social Development, adopted in March 2026, and of the State Council’s “Action Plan for Carbon Peaking during the 15th Five-Year Plan Period”, issued earlier this month. While the “Action Plan for Carbon Peaking” focuses mainly on energy and sectoral carbon dioxide (CO2) reductions, the new national climate plan also addresses non-CO2 gases, climate risk and the data systems needed to implement climate policy.
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