China's Ecological and Environmental Code: A model for balancing development and sustainability 

China has just adopted its Ecological and Environmental Code, the country's second law to be named a "code". Why is ecology made the focus of such an important piece of legislation? The answer lies in everyday life — from greener packaging in e-commerce and food delivery to tackling noise, fumes and other pollution close to home. More broadly, the code reflects China's effort to balance rapid economic growth with people's right to a healthy environment. For many developing countries facing the same challenge, China's approach may offer a useful reference on how development and environmental protection can move forward together.