Taizhou unveils regulation to curb agricultural pollution

Taizhou city – located in East China's Jiangsu province – has unveiled a regulation to prevent and curb pollution in the agricultural sector.

It's designed to boost green and sustainable development and is the first regulation of its kind in Jiangsu province, local media reported.

The regulation will take effect on Sept 1, marking a new phase in the law-based prevention and control of agricultural pollution in the city.

In recent years, Taizhou has been actively carrying out actions to combat agricultural pollution. However, the overall situation is said to still require further efforts – to reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides, improve the utilization of livestock waste and establish a sound system for the recycling of agricultural packaging materials and waste residues.

The regulation consists of seven chapters and 42 items. It prioritizes eco-system protection and green development – and requires adhering to the principle of prevention as the main focus, while combining prevention and control measures.

It targets key issues in the prevention and control of regional agricultural pollution, further regulates the use of fertilizers and pesticides, promotes comprehensive management and utilization of agricultural waste and promotes the green transformation and the high-quality development of agriculture.

As Taizhou is a major agricultural city and an important production base for grain, oilseeds and aquatic products in the country, the regulation comprehensively covers various areas of output.

It encompasses articles on agricultural inputs, the utilization and disposal of agricultural waste such as straw and plastic film, as well as the prevention and control of pollution from livestock and aquaculture.

Moreover, it aims to promote a coordinated and comprehensive approach to pollution management.