Summary
China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) has published its first official list of key controlled toxic and hazardous soil pollutants, a landmark step in strengthening national environmental regulation. Released on September 18, 2025, the list identifies eight substances, including cadmium, as priority targets for monitoring and control.
Policy Announcement
The “List of Key Controlled Toxic and Hazardous Soil Pollutants (First Edition)” marks the beginning of a structured framework to tackle soil contamination. The MEE emphasized that the list will serve as a baseline for enforcement, remediation, and industrial compliance, ensuring that pollutants most harmful to public health and ecosystems are tightly regulated.
Substances Included
Among the eight substances named, cadmium stands out due to its widespread presence in industrial waste and its severe impact on agriculture and food safety. Other substances include heavy metals and chemical compounds linked to long-term soil degradation and human health risks.
Strategic Context
China has faced mounting challenges with soil contamination, particularly in agricultural regions where heavy metals have seeped into farmland. The new list is part of a broader national effort to strengthen environmental monitoring systems, improve pollutant discharge permits, and align with international standards on hazardous chemicals.
Implementation Measures
The MEE confirmed that the list will guide future legislation, compliance checks, and remediation projects. Industries handling these substances will face stricter reporting requirements, while local governments will be tasked with enhanced monitoring and enforcement.
Global Significance
By formalizing a controlled list, China signals its intent to prioritize soil health alongside air and water pollution control, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection. The move is expected to influence regional policy frameworks across East Asia.
Sources: Enviliance Asia – China’s MEE Publishes First List of Key Controlled Toxic and Hazardous Soil Pollutants enviliance.com
