China Environmental Law

Oh I know I’ve probably reeled in quite a few new readers with this post’s title, and I’m sorry to disappoint those hoping for a review of the Meteorology Law. Because of the press of other business, all I can do today is direct you to a very nicely written article by Tom Scocca in Plenty Magazine about China’s “weather modification” efforts particularly as they relate to the Olympics.  Sure, the article is accompanied by the obligatory bicyclist-wears-face-mask-on-typical-smoggy-day-in-Beijing photograph, but the writing is straight up and the story is well-researched.  You may want to skip this read if you believe it is likely you will spend anytime circling Beijing’s Capital Airport during inclement weather. They use antiaircraft missiles to aid in weather modification you see, and . . . . well I’m sure the Beijing aviation authorities are on top of everything.

Since this is a law blog and I don’t want to completely disappoint those drawn in by the title, here’s the section (Article 30) from China’s Meteorology Law that is referenced in the article:

People’s governments at or above the county level shall enhance their leadership over weather modification and, in light of actual conditions, carry out work in this field in an organized and planned way. The competent meteorological department under the State Council shall more efficiently administer and guide weather modification throughout the country. Local competent meteorological departments at all levels shall make plans for weather modification operations and, under the leadership and coordination of the people’s governments at the corresponding levels, administer, guide and arrange for such operations. Relevant departments shall, in compliance with their functions and duties and division of responsibilities, cooperate with the competent meteorological departments in weather modification. Organizations engaging in weather modification operations shall meet the qualifications prescribed by the competent meteorological departments of provinces, autonomous regions or municipalities directly under the Central Government, use the operational equipment which meets the specifications set by the competent meteorological department under the State Council, and conform to the operational rules.

Perhaps less fair, but funny nonetheless, is this “China Air” comic also in Plenty Magazine:

Happy Friday!