CGEL Database

The China's Global Environmental Leadership database is the first and the most comprehensive database that gathers granular data on cross-border environmental governance initiatives led by Chinese state and non-state actors in the 21st century. The database collects in a systematic manner key information on the efforts made by Chinese actors to lead governance initiatives to address different environmental issues and through different channels including multilateral, bilateral, transnational initiatives.

The first version of the database includes 29 variables.

The unit for analysis in the CGEL database is a governance initiative. Therefore, the following guidelines are used to determine which initiatives are eligible for inclusion:

1

Governance initiatives during the period 2000 to 2024, including cases that started prior to 2000 and ended before 2024

2

Governance initiatives must involve substantial actions. It must involve steering and be recognised as authoritative by the individuals and organizations that constitute its network

3

The initiative should primarily aim to address environmental issues, or have environmental issues as one of its key concerns

Initiatives that do not involve any non-Chinese actors, or have no activity beyond China's borders should be excluded

The initiatives should be co-created by a Chinese actor, or their operation is mainly led by Chinese actor

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