From: Shenzhen Daily | Updated:2023-08-22
On Dec. 14 of last year, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution during its 77th session, proclaiming March 30 as the International Day of Zero Waste, to be observed annually.
In fact, as early as 2018, five years prior to the resolution’s passing, the Vanke Foundation, the China Zero Waste Alliance and One Foundation, jointly launched an annual nationwide event called “Zero Waste Day.” This event promotes the concept of zero-waste living among the pubic, urging everyone to embrace a zero-waste lifestyle and reduce carbon emissions while lightening the burdens in their daily lives.
A graduate student from the China Agricultural University shows visitors around the university’s lab at Vanke Center Carbon Neutrality Experimental Zone in Yantian District on Aug. 19. Courtesy of the Vanke Foundation
This year’s Aug. 19 Zero Waste Day marked the event’s sixth edition. On that day, the Vanke Foundation, together with Meisha Subdistrict, organized several activities to encourage residents to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle.
During the event, representatives from a total of six scenarios, including office spaces, schools, scenic spots, hotels, residential compounds and wet markets signed a proposal, committing to implement zero-waste practices and actively participate in zero-carbon activities.
As part of the event, Meisha Subdistrict invited its residents to participate in a flea market, where they could sell their new and used items, such as books, stationery and handicrafts.
Residents are seen shopping at the flea market Aug.19.
“What I brought to this market are almost unused. The piece of stationery is brand new and is a limited edition,” said a vendor surnamed Zhang.
“The market not only promotes the green concept among the public but also helps local residents get to know each other,” she added.
In addition to the market, the Vanke Foundation held an open day at its Vanke Center Carbon Neutrality Experimental Zone, also known as Yantian Biosphere 3, to teach residents how to conduct composting, which helps in carbon sequestration, the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide form the atmosphere.
The foundation’s staff demonstrated the process of composting to the residents, and researchers from the China Agricultural University also introduced and explained their academic achievements.
The theme for this year’s Zero Waste Day was “Embracing zero-waste lifestyle and living freely.” A total of 192 social organizations, businesses, community groups, schools, and volunteer teams from across the country participated in this event through various online and offline activities in different cities.