China and Global Environmental Governance

Abstract

This chapter describes and analyzes the law and practice concerning Chinese foreign relations law in the context of global environmental governance. It explains why Chinese foreign relations law is fragmented and unpredictable. Against this fragmentation, it focuses on the field of environmental law and analyses how “environmental diplomacy” plays a role in Chinese foreign relations law pertaining to the environment. To demonstrate general law and practice, the chapter focuses on two core issues, which are allocation of Chinese public powers on negotiating, concluding and approving international environmental treaties and agreements and international cooperation with global environmental institutions. Finally, the chapter explores two issues concerning the legal status of environmental treaties in China, their legal place and methods of implementation that ensure compliance.