China launched a new punishment system for polluters on Wednesday, in a joint effort by 31 government departments that puts tight reins on those responsible for severe environmental harm.
Companies will face strict restrictions, such as being barred from issuing bonds, receiving subsidies or enjoying tax rebates, under the policy signed by authorities in environmental protection, economic planning and banking.
It added that individual people responsible would also face punishments, such as being barred from airline travel or buying luxuries.
"The new system aims to place high costs on polluters and encourage companies to regulate their own behavior for environmental protection," said Huang Runqiu, vice-minister of environmental protection.
Bie Tao, deputy head of the ministry’s policy department, said on Wednesday that there were 14 types of violations that can put a company on the target list — for example, a company that starts construction before receiving approvals, or that discharges excessive pollutants or violates temporary restrictions imposed by cities to limit severe air pollution.
Bie said the list on companies would be updated regularly.
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