China bans film shooting in nature reserves

China has banned film shooting and artistic performances in most areas of nature reserves, scenic spots.

China has banned film shooting and artistic performances in most areas of nature reserves, scenic spots and at sites of historical interest and warned violators of 'harsh' punishment.

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People who violate the regulation and damage the environment in these places will be dealt with harshly, according to the regulation, jointly issued by the State Environmental Protection Administration, the Ministry of Construction, the Ministry of Culture and State Administration of Cultural Heritage said.

Film shooting and artistic performances will still be allowed in the experimental zone of nature reserves, outer sections of scenic spots and some cultural heritage sites.

The regulation requires approval from relevant authorities on the building of film sets and stages for one-off performances.

Film studios and performance organisers should immediately dismantle the settings, stages and other facilities after they finish their work and restore the vegetation they have damaged, according to the regulation.

China now has 2,349 natural reserves, covering about 1.5 million square kilometres, 15 per cent of China's land area.

However, some local governments neglect nature reserve protection in favour of economic development.

The exploitation of nature reserves by famous Chinese film personalities has been widely reported.