THE head of Shanghai’s Environmental Protection Bureau called on local residents yesterday to join the fight against pollution while also reminding the public about the potential financial rewards of reporting suspected environmental rule-breakers.

“We will continue to strengthen law enforcement against environmental polluters this year (but) tip-offs from the public have always been valued,” explained Zhang Quan, during a talk on local radio.

Zhang said several local residents have already been awarded up to 5,000 yuan (US$508) for tip-offs.