China's new regulations on ecological protection compensation are expected to pave the way for solving trans-regional management issues, a global issue of some difficulty.

As major rivers, lakes and many other bodies of water span different regions and basins, the regulations aim to tackle horizontal compensation between regions.

"In practical work, we have realized that trans-regional management is extremely challenging, a truly global challenge," Guo Lanfeng, a senior official with the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), told a press conference Friday.

Guo said the regulations adhere to a problem-oriented approach, targeting the difficult and obstructive issues in horizontal compensation.

For example, the regulations specifically target the scenario where two provincial-level regions enter into an agreement but subsequently default on their commitments, he said.

Ecological protection compensation is a motivational arrangement that rewards organizations and individuals for their efforts in ecological conservation, in line with established regulations or agreements.

Globally, various nations have embarked on distinctive and pioneering endeavors within specific ecological sectors such as forestry, wetland conservation and watershed management, amassing a wealth of valuable experience.

However, the current international approaches to ecological protection compensation are often limited in scope, usually addressing concerns on an individual, case-by-case basis.

"There was no precedent for comprehensive legislation on ecological protection compensation," said Wang Xintong, an official with the NDRC.

The regulations establish a legal framework for regions to engage in cross-regional ecological protection compensation, fostering a collaborative approach where governments at all levels invest collectively and work together to protect the upper and lower reaches of river basins, Wang said.

"These measures are aimed at tackling a world-class challenge," he said.

Effective June 1, 2024, the regulations comprise 33 items in six chapters, specifying details including the connotation of ecological protection compensation, the working principle and mechanism, fiscal vertical compensation, horizontal compensation between regions, market-mechanism compensation, and strengthening guarantees, supervision and management.

China's work on ecological protection compensation has spanned over two decades, and these regulations are seen as a milestone. It's a good thing to have such experience incorporated in laws and regulations.

By establishing a benefit-sharing mechanism that connects ecological beneficiaries with those who protect the environment, the regulations ensure that local communities benefit directly from their conservation efforts, inspiring ecological conservation efforts from everyone, Guo said.