In Hangzhou, East China’s Zhejiang province, mornings are no longer about taking out the trash. Instead, residents use a smartphone app to call professional collectors. Cardboard, plastics, and other recyclables arrive at the door. They are converted into “eco-credits” that can be spent on groceries.
Since 2022, the platform has served 559,000 households in Yuhang and Linping districts. It recovered roughly 400,000 metric tons of recyclable materials. As a result, the city reduced its overall waste output. According to the Hangzhou Ecology and Environment Bureau, daily waste per person fell from 1.06 kilograms in 2021 to 0.99 kilograms in 2024. Hangzhou, with 8.75 million residents, is one of the few global cities that cut waste while sustaining economic growth.
In January, the United Nations recognized Hangzhou as one of the top 20 Zero Waste Cities. The recognition highlighted its success in balancing rapid growth with sound environmental governance. Indeed, a zero-waste city minimizes landfill use, prioritizes recycling, and encourages sustainable lifestyles.
China launched its zero-waste city initiative in 2018. During the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–25), it expanded to 113 cities and eight special regions. Vice-Minister of Ecology and Environment Li Gao emphasized that zero-waste cities are a “key reform measure.” He confirmed the target: 60 percent of cities by 2027 and nationwide coverage by 2035. Additionally, around 200 cities are planned during the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–30).
Authorities are expanding waste-sorting programs, improving recycling infrastructure, and promoting green manufacturing. Zhang Xueliang, urban studies expert at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, said the initiative reshapes lifestyles and urban governance. It drives low-carbon, circular development and strengthens high-quality urban growth.
Furthermore, zero-waste cities create vibrant, resilient communities, encourage sustainable habits, and foster innovation in green technology. Therefore, they link environmental responsibility with economic and cultural development, serving as a nationwide model for sustainable urban living.
