China is using the circular economy to turn waste into wealth
China is accelerating its circular economy to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability. In Xuzhou, Jiangsu province, discarded cables are recycled into valuable metals like copper and aluminum, reducing energy use and pollution. Xu Hang of State Grid Xuzhou Power Supply Company estimates that recycling over 11,000 tonnes of cables could cut 30,000 tonnes of carbon emissions in 2024. Nationwide, China aims to establish a circular industrial system by 2025, targeting a resource recycling industry output of 5 trillion yuan. Advanced recycling technologies are also transforming kitchen and green waste into biofuel and soil nutrients. Suzhou’s circular economy park processes hundreds of tonnes daily, supporting green energy and generating significant revenue. Meanwhile, the secondhand goods market is booming, with platforms like Alibaba’s Xianyu enabling secure, large-scale trading of used items. Experts emphasize that boosting public awareness and participation is key to fully realizing the environmental and economic benefits of a circular economy. Learn more about this study.
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