China will impose harsh punishments on those who handle medical waste improperly, in a bid to reduce pollution and protect public health.

Companies or government agencies that illegally collect, store, transport and handle medical waste will have their licenses revoked and will be heavily fined, according to a statement from the National Health and Family Planning Commission issued on January 8.

The commission said that it will strengthen the monitoring of medical waste disposal companies and units, as well as cooperating with environmental authorities to shut down substandard waste disposal facilities.

It also urged local authorities to establish a sound pricing system for medical waste procurement before the end of 2015 and improve hazard-free disposal of medical waste.