China has in later years experienced a rapid economic development, which has occurred at the expense of the
environment. This strongly applies to the manufacturing industry as a central element in the developing economy.
The Chinese government is however now pursuing a development path associated with improved environmental
characteristics with a focus on Resource and Energy Efficiency (R&EE). Within this development Eco-Industrial
Parks (EIPs) can make an important contribution for improved R&EE in the manufacturing industry. EIPs facilitate
low energy and environmental impact production and the concept consequently comply both with economic and
ecologic development goals, while also having social benefits. While EIPs are promoted in the Chinese general
policy framework, such as the Circular Economy (CE), they are not targeted by any specific policy instruments.
Based on a review of international and Chinese policy recommendations and experiences on R&EE policy, the
paper identify that this can be effectively accomplished by Voluntary Agreements (VAs). A positive aspect of VAs is
the design flexibility that allows the instrument to be adapted to the varying conditions under which Industrial Parks
(IPs) operate in China. VAs are also identified to encompass a number of positive features in the China EIP case
as regards to increasing policy compliance, accomplishing short-term results, avoiding inefficient technological
lock-in as part of the rapid development, contributing to capacity building, and dealing with EIP management
barriers.