China is getting tough on human-caused environmental damage by issuing a detailed plan on protecting scenic spots.

 

The Regulation on Scenic Spots consists of 52 articles in seven chapters, and will come into effect on December 1, 2006.

 

The new rule stipulates that new scenic spots cannot be established in existing natural reserves, while facilities that are not crucial to tourism, such as hotels and training centers, must be removed from these areas.

 

Those who flout these rules or whose construction projects threaten the surrounding environment, including vegetation, wildlife, and water resources, may be fined between 500,000 and 1 million yuan (about US$63,000 to 126,000).

 

Similar punishment will also be meted out who exploit mineral resources or produce explosive, inflammable, radioactive, toxic or erosive substances near tourism sites.

 

However, the new policy rules that saboteurs who make efforts to compensate for their wrongdoing may face a lighter penalty, such as below 100,000 yuan (US$12,500).

 

In May, China's environmental watchdog ordered officials in southwestern Yunnan Province to punish the makers of the film "The Promise" for environmental damage to a lake in the scenic Shangri-La area. The film crew built temporary facilities between May and June of 2004, damaging 500 square meters of grassland

 

(CRI September 30, 2006)