Eco-environmental zoning management: An innovative reform of China's environmental impact assessment system

Abstract

As an outcome of regional spatial ecological and environmental assessments, Eco-environmental zoning management in China serves as both a proactive measure for mitigating ecological risks at their source and a new direction for the evolution of the EIA system, shaping a new framework for the conservation and utilization of territorial space. This paper employs research methodologies such as case studies, administrative process theory, and SWOT analysis, a systematic review of the practical implementation of the Eco-environmental zoning management system reveals that: Through proactive intervention, information disclosure and intelligent analysis, Eco-environmental zoning management has established an EIA pre-assessment service mechanism and an EIA optimization and supervision mechanism, which not only standardize EIA preparation and streamline the content of EIA but also strongly drive the reform and innovative development of the EIA system. China's Eco-environmental zoning management is transitioning from a policy-driven model to one led by the rule of law. The primary challenges encountered during this institutional transformation include a lag in legal provisions during the formulation stage, deviations from implementation protocols during the execution stage, and a lack of supportive mechanisms during the regulatory stage. To advance the rule of law in Eco-environmental zoning management, it is essential to adhere to principles of administrative legality and procedural integrity. The proposed developmental framework should unfold across three stages: Pre-compilation, mid-implementation, and post-regulation. The insights presented in this paper offer novel research perspectives and analytical methodologies for the legalization of China's Eco-environmental zoning management. Furthermore, the systematic review and theoretical analysis contribute to the comprehensive advancement and sustainable development of China's EIA system reform, while also facilitating the dissemination of new trends and significant achievements of this reform to a global audience. Additionally, these findings provide comparative examples and theoretical references for academic inquiries related to Eco-environmental zoning management.