Pollution Transparency Database
This solution addresses lack of accountability for polluters in China for public and policy makerts
Problem Description
In China, the accountability structures for polluters are weak despite good intentions. In many situations it's cheaper to pay penalties and fines than it would be to curb pollution. The Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs (IPE) aims to increase public engagement with this issue in attempts to create better compliance. IPE gathers and analyzes hard-to-find, public environmental data on water and air quality and environmental violations records across China. IPE makes this data accessible and easy to use, so that the press, investors, and citizens can hold suppliers, multinational corporations, and local governments accountable.Building Blocks
Story
Ma Jun, founder of IPE, saw firsthand in the 90s just how detrimental factory pollution was to China's environment and society. After writing the groundbreaking book "China’s Water Crisis" he became interested in a way to increase accountability for these polluters, all while serving to informing the public. In 2006 he founded the IPE as a way to accomplish this. Since it conception the organization has found innovative ways to make data on pollution publicly accessible. Most recently the IPE has partnered with other nonprofits to create a green certification program for products made in China.
Solution Type
Photos
Contributed By
- Contact The Ipe
Solution Stage
One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn more
| STAGE | SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED | EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES | RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING | FINANCE REQUIRED | KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED | GOAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Developing and implementing5 | Strong leadership, management, implementation skills |
|
MEDIUM |
HIGH | A robust and detailed case developed through formal evaluation and evidence gathering – use of a control group to isolate impact | An implemented and sustainable innovation |
Submitted By
Bryan Lehrer