Some Changzhi residents told China Daily that contaminated water from the aniline spill has flowed into their fallow farmland, and they expressed concerns that the toxic chemical would affect the spring harvest. If that proves to be the case, they will ask for compensation from the plant or the local government.

However, it's difficult for residents to defend their rights as individuals, according to Tian Fengchang, a legal adviser at the All-China Environment Federation. A lack of legal knowledge prevents many people from asserting their rights and most are unable to afford the legal fees.

"They either ask for a huge amount in compensation that exceeds the prescribed limit, or don't know their rights," said Tian.

People are often vulnerable when they are up against big business or the government, said Tian, who has paid close attention to environment compensation claims since 2005. Instead they usually turn to specialist organizations such as All-China Environment Federation for help.

"These groups are professional and find it easier to attract the government's attention," he said. "Individuals are highly unlikely to get any response."

He advised the Changzhi residents to collect evidence for use in investigations by taking photos and water samples. However, the compensation procedure could take years, said Tian.

Hu Sanhu, head of the Changzhi Government Information Office, said no schedule has yet been drawn up for compensation claims, but pledged that experts from the Ministry of Environmental Protection will test the contaminated soil.

(China Daily 01/11/2013 page6)