Core Viewpoint - The recent amendment to the Environmental Protection Tax Law aims to include all volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the tax scope to strengthen their management and improve air quality [1][3]. Summary by Sections Legislative Changes - The 18th meeting of the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee reviewed the amendment to the Environmental Protection Tax Law, which builds on the initial review from the 17th meeting [1]. - The amendment allows the State Council to conduct pilot projects for the taxation of VOCs not previously included in the tax scope, with a requirement to report back to the Standing Committee within five years [3][4]. Environmental Impact - VOCs are significant contributors to air pollution, including PM2.5 and ozone formation, and are linked to smog and photochemical haze [3]. - The amendment is seen as timely due to advancements in monitoring technology and management capabilities for VOCs, which have improved significantly in recent years [4]. Implementation Strategy - The amendment proposes a cautious approach by initiating pilot projects to gather experience before a full-scale implementation of the tax on VOCs [4]. - The complexity of monitoring and calculating emissions from VOCs necessitates a phased approach to ensure effective management and compliance [4].

Core Viewpoint - The first volatile organic compounds (VOCs) flare gas recovery unit in China's coal chemical industry has been successfully put into operation by Xinjiang Xinye Energy Chemical Co., Ltd, significantly reducing pollutant emissions and generating steam as a byproduct [1][2]. Group 1: Project Overview - The project was initiated with an investment of 40 million yuan, focusing on the recovery and utilization of flare gas that was previously burned off, addressing a common challenge in the coal chemical industry [1]. - The new facility includes a 5,000 cubic meter gas holder for collecting flare gas and a direct combustion furnace (TO furnace) with a processing capacity of 2,000 cubic meters per hour [1]. Group 2: Environmental and Economic Benefits - The project is expected to reduce pollutant emissions by over 140 tons annually and produce 120,000 tons of steam as a byproduct [1][2]. - The economic benefits include an annual revenue of approximately 6 million yuan from steam utilization, equivalent to saving 11,500 tons of standard coal and achieving a reduction of 30,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions [2]. Group 3: Compliance and Monitoring - The facility has been operating smoothly since its trial run began on September 17, with non-methane total hydrocarbon emissions maintained below 20 milligrams per cubic meter, surpassing national emission standards [2].