Trans-jurisdictional River Basin Water Pollution Management and Cooperation in China: Case Study of Jiangsu/Zhejiang Province in Comparative Global Context

Abstract

The deterioration of water pollution drainage in China is caused by poor administrative capabilities as well as natural forces. Low efficiency, even inefficacy in trans-jurisdictional water pollution management by local governments, has resulted in environmental damage accompanying economic development, conflicts between people living up- and down-stream, and potential hidden problems for social stabilization. By examining the process of policy evolution and reform of water pollution management and cooperation between Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, this paper tries to learn from successful global experiences in domestic trans-boundary water management. The study shows that resolution of the conflict between watershed management and regional management based on “Tiao-Kuai-System” (China's system of vertical and horizontal relations between central and local government and within government) is the highest priority. The integrated reform of trans-jurisdictional water pollution management of river basin in China should include insitutional and law reforms.