This study presents a critical analysis of the environmental challenges regarding global environmental policies and current practices in China. The study provides imperative evidence about the current emission control strategies, environmental planning, legislation, policy instruments, and measures to provide a sustainable environment for the present and future generations. The study followed a well-defined analytical methodology to analyse the measures adopted to control emissions as a trade-balancing tool for the environment. The findings indicated that domestic as well as the international collaborations were effective in controlling the present problem of environmental pollution, and suggested a need for collaborative agreements to amend the Environmental Protection Law (EPL). The analytical findings determined that the proposed EPL considered SO₂ or NO₂ emissions while neglecting an important source of environmental pollution, i.e., CO₂ emissions. The research findings also suggested a need for to accelerate efforts in a more professional, practical, and result-oriented manner to analyse the diverse nature of environmental issues. The research highlighted some of the obstacles to the successful implementation of EPL for current and future environmental challenges.

At present, the concept of good ocean governance is articulated in the literature only. This paper adopted eight elements of good governance as an analytical framework, namely, the rule of law, participatory, transparency, consensus-based decision making, accountability, equity and inclusiveness, responsiveness and coherence. These elements are partially supported by international treaty practice but have not yet received universal acceptance.