Exploration and practice of “zero-waste city” in China

Abstract

The ever-increasing rise in the generation of solid waste has become a global environmental issue. Many cities around the world have adopted zero-waste strategies, policies, and plans to achieve zero-waste goals. China puts great importance to solid waste management and has implemented a zero-waste city pilot program in 11 cities and 5 special areas. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China will promote the construction of “zero-waste city” in 113 cities and 8 special areas. This study introduces the exploration and practice of a zero-waste city in China, including the concept of a zero-waste city, the top-level design for constructing such cities, and the effectiveness of pilot programs. The top-level design of zero-waste city construction in China was explained, including the overall thinking, stage goal, main path, overall structural framework, and promotion method. This study also elaborates on the progress and achievements of zero-waste city construction, summarizing the reform measures in terms of legal processes, policy tools for goal-oriented guidance, and high-level promotion and overall planning. The construction of a zero-waste city is a powerful tool for deepening comprehensive solid waste management reform and is an important initiative for ecological civilization construction.