BEIJING — The supreme people’s court has released more details over liabilities against pollution. For the first time, the position of the plaintiff has been clearly defined.

According to the explanation, social organizations, including noncommercial units and nonprofit foundations are eligible to file these lawsuits against environmental pollution, ecosystem damage or harming of public interests. The qualified social organizations should be registered at the civil affairs department at the municipal government or above.

They would also need to be engaged in environmental protection and public welfare activities and be free of offense records for five consecutive years. These lawsuits could be filed accordingly based on the location polluted such as the basin or eco-region.