Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of reforming the three core systems of ecological environment zoning control, environmental impact assessment (EIA), and pollutant discharge permits to enhance ecological governance and support high-quality development [1][5]. Summary by Sections Ecological Environment Zoning Control - Ecological environment zoning control provides the "bottom line" and "framework" for various development activities, serving as a foundational system for ecological management [2]. - It is essential for ensuring the construction of a beautiful China, with ecological protection red lines, environmental quality bottom lines, and resource utilization upper lines as key components [2][3]. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) - EIA acts as a primary system for source prevention, crucial for controlling environmental access for planning and projects [2]. - The EIA system has developed over 40 years but faces challenges that require reform to reduce burdens on local levels while maintaining strict access controls [2][3]. Pollutant Discharge Permits - Pollutant discharge permits are the core system for regulating fixed pollution sources, linking source control with end-of-pipe treatment [2][3]. - The permits are essential for precise lifecycle management of fixed pollution sources [2]. Interconnections Among the Three Systems - The three systems are interconnected, forming a logical closed loop of "spatial control—access control—emission regulation" [3]. - Each system focuses on improving environmental quality through precise management, supporting the overall ecological environment system [3]. Distinctions Among the Systems - Different control dimensions: zoning control focuses on spatial dimensions, EIA on decision-making, and discharge permits on emission dimensions [3][4]. - Different target objects: zoning control covers all spatial units, EIA focuses on specific projects, and discharge permits target fixed pollution sources [3][4]. Reforming Ecological Environment Zoning Control - Zoning control is seen as a basis for the synergy of the three systems, requiring reforms to enhance its scientific and operational effectiveness [5]. - Key areas for reform include strengthening multi-factor collaborative management, supporting precise standard formulation, and improving the institutional guarantee system [5][6][7]. Future Directions for Pollutant Discharge Permits - The vision for pollutant discharge permits is to establish a comprehensive, scientifically sound, and efficient regulatory system [8]. - Core reform tasks include full-factor coverage, integrated management, full-cycle control, quality standards, and reinforcing corporate responsibility [8][9][10]. Implementation Pathways for Optimizing Discharge Permits - Establishing a permit emission volume determination system based on environmental quality goals is crucial [9]. - Promoting interlinked management across zoning control, EIA, and discharge permits is necessary for effective governance [9]. - Implementing a "one certificate" management approach for coordinated pollution and carbon reduction is essential [10].