This compilation presents the fifth batch of environmental judicial cases of the People’s Republic of China prepared for the UNEP Judicial Portal. It includes ten decided Guiding Cases from 2021 to 2025 addressing environmental pollution, illegal mining and fishing, bankruptcy restructuring with environmental considerations, hydropower project impacts, medical and industrial waste disposal, and government accountability. The cases demonstrate how Chinese courts apply ecological restoration, public interest litigation, corporate liability, and good-governance principles across criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings, contributing to China’s model of ecological civilization and sustainable development.

Key environmental legal questions:

How is ecological restoration implemented in criminal, civil, and administrative judgments? What standards govern environmental public interest litigation by procuratorates and social organizations? How do courts determine joint and several liability for corporate pollution? How are environmental obligations integrated into bankruptcy and restructuring proceedings? What judicial mechanisms ensure accountability of administrative authorities for environmental negligence?