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★Mark us as a preferred sourceSix Chinese government departments, including the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and the National Development and Reform Commission, have jointly issued a comprehensive plan to strengthen the prevention and control of solid waste pollution. Spanning the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), the initiative aims to significantly improve waste management capacities, mitigate environmental risks, and eliminate illegal dumping sites by the end of the decade.
Comprehensive Objectives for the 15th Five-Year Plan
The primary objective of China’s solid waste management strategy for the 2026-2030 period is to achieve notable progress in the treatment of solid waste pollution across key areas. By 2030, the government aims to effectively control and manage accumulated waste from previous years. Furthermore, the strategy places a strong emphasis on curbing widespread illegal dumping and the improper disposal of solid waste. According to the official plan, these measures are designed to significantly improve the country’s comprehensive solid waste management capacity.
Digital Supervision and “Zero-Waste Cities”
The regulatory package focuses not only on physical waste treatment but also on the transparent and continuous monitoring of these processes. To achieve this, the plan sets the goal of establishing an integrated digital supervision network that covers all key areas of the sector. Another defining objective is the construction of a number of “zero-waste cities” by 2030, which will foster innovative and sustainable urban development.
Targeted Measures Against Illegal Dumping Sites
The document calls for coordinated efforts to tackle the most pressing environmental problems and to strengthen systematic state governance. The primary focus is on identifying and addressing environmental risks promptly, as well as enhancing oversight across the entire solid waste management chain.
The plan outlines targeted treatment and eradication measures for the following specific issues:
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The eradication of illegal solid waste dumping.
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The removal of waste dumped without authorization in karst caves.
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The safe management and oversight of phosphogypsum storage sites.
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The intensified inspection of municipal solid waste landfills and hazardous waste landfills.
Regulation of Industrial, Residential, and Agricultural Waste
The 15th Five-Year Plan establishes clear requirements for various waste types originating from different sectors. The management of industrial and hazardous waste, as well as discarded electrical and electronic products, will be strictly regulated. In response to the side effects of the green transition, specific requirements have been set for the disposal of retired new-energy equipment. Additionally, the proper and responsible management of solid waste generated by households, construction, and agricultural activities forms an integral part of the regulation.
Official Reference Link: The official English-language publication of the announcement on the Chinese government’s state portal (gov.cn) can be accessed here: China unveils solid waste pollution control plan for 2026-2030 (english.www.gov.cn)
