The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is arousing suspicion that it and the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) are uneasy bedfellows.

Its alleged reluctance to publish the country's first statistical report that took into account economic losses from environmental degradation and pollution popularly known as Green GDP sparked rumors of discord last year.

Few doubt SEPA's eagerness for stricter environmental standards. The NBS would not have joined forces as the co-author of the report had it felt otherwise about our environmental situation.

But key common ground seems lacking between them.

The SEPA had promised to release a second Green GDP accounting report soon after Spring Festival.

But the NBS is reportedly suggesting that the new report, which reviews GDP losses in 2005, be reserved for decision-makers' eyes only. Many believe NBS officials are concerned about unfavorable local repercussions once it is made public.

We understand such concerns. The new report will embarrass local governments because environmental losses turned out to be even more serious in 2005 than in the previous year. The report also comes with figures for every province and municipality.

Local reluctance was, is, and will continue to be the toughest obstacle in terms of promoting the Green GDP concept.

SEPA's efforts for harsher environmental rules are unpopular with local officials because many worry they will suppress growth.

But that is no reason for SEPA to soften its stance. The environmental cost of our economic growth has become too high to be sustainable, and acceptable.

The central government has announced annual and five-year quotas for reducing pollutant discharges.

But these were not met last year because the quotas were toothless. Further failure is likely unless we give these quotas teeth.

In order for that to happen we need consensus, first within the central government.

The apparent disagreement between SEPA and the NBS sends a confusing message that two departments of the central government are unable to co-ordinate their work.

We are in favor of making the report public. There is no reason to withhold it. The public has a right to know. Its publication is essential for public supervision of government conduct.

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