Evolution of marine litter governance policies in China: Review, performance and prospects

Jinkai Yu; Wenxin Cui

doi:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112325

Evolution of marine litter governance policies in China: Review, performance and prospects

Mar Pollut Bull. 2021 Jun:167:112325. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112325. Epub 2021 Apr 8.

Authors

Jinkai Yu¹, Wenxin Cui²

Affiliations

¹ College of Economics, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China; Marine Development Studies Institute of OUC, Key Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences at Universities, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, PR China. Electronic address: yujinkai8@126.com.
² College of Economics, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China.

PMID: 33839568
DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112325

Abstract

This study aims to empirically analyze the current situation of marine litter governance in China and unearth methods for future development. Based on a mix of 171 policy documents, this article traces the evolution of marine litter governance policies in China since 1982, using the method of literature analysis and content analysis and ROSTCM6 software. These policies can be divided into three stages: the initial establishment stage (1982-1989), the rapid development stage (1990-1999) and the comprehensive development stage (2000-2020). In each period, the characteristics and performances of policies are analyzed. Key findings demonstrate that policy subjects and tools have been gradually diversified, the content and scope of governance have become broader, and the policy focus has shifted from quantity reduction to green, intelligent and high-quality development. The development of future marine litter governance policy should improve the legal system, focus on technology, and establish a comprehensive management mechanism for land and sea coordination.

Keywords: Marine litter pollution; Ocean environmental governance; Performance; Policy evolution; Prospects; Review.

MeSH terms

China
Policy*