Chinese companies engaged in the disposal of urban waste could be fined as much as 100,000 yuan (US$13,160), according to new regulations on urban garbage disposal issued by the Ministry of Construction.

The new rules, which will come into effect on July 1, are designed to force waste disposal companies to show more concern for the environment.

The maximum fine of 100,000 yuan will be imposed on companies who fail to monitor the impact of garbage disposal on water, air and soil on a regular basis and report the results to the local supervision departments.

Those responsible for the demolition or closure of disposal facilities without approval from authorities will also liable to pay the maximum penalty.

Companies engaged in garbage disposal are not allowed to cease operation without approval from local administrations.

The new regulations said the government would adopt preferential policies and measures to develop new technologies in waste disposal.

The Chinese government announced Monday its first national action plan to address climate change, in which the disposal of urban garbage was identified as a major area to be addressed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The action plan said the country would improve the recycling of urban garbage, for instance, collecting flammable gases when burying the garbage and developing technologies for the treatment of garbage, such as incineration.

(Xinhua News Agency June 6, 2007)