Zero-carbon parks are emerging as a new model for promoting green, low-carbon, sustainable, and high-quality development in the context of global carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets.
At the Central Economic Work Conference in December, Chinese leaders outlined economic priorities for 2025, placing green transition high on the agenda. Zero-carbon parks are seen as crucial hubs for achieving China’s “dual carbon” goals of peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060.
Here are some leading examples of zero-carbon parks in the Chinese mainland and around the world.
In the Chinese Mainland
Xiongan New Area
Major green projects are transforming Xiongan New Area in northern China’s Hebei Province. A new energy ecological park opened in June features an integrated solar photovoltaic system and ground and air source heat pumps, achieving the zero-carbon building standard. A smart low-carbon management system operates the park, aiming to reduce annual carbon emissions by 10,000 tonnes.
Tianjin Port
Advanced technologies have been employed in the construction of Tianjin Port to enhance environmental protection. The port has achieved green energy self-sufficiency throughout the production process, with electricity generated by wind turbines and photovoltaic plants. Zero-carbon smart wharves epitomize the green focus at Tianjin Port, where wind, photovoltaic, and other new energy generation systems have been built with a total installed capacity of 78 megawatts, generating 180 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. Electric charging stations for heavy trucks have also been installed.
CRRC Zero-Carbon Industrial Park
On December 26, the CRRC Zero-Carbon Industrial Park was officially completed in Zhuzhou, central China’s Hunan Province. By utilizing low-carbon technologies such as waste heat recovery and integrating solar, energy storage, and charging systems, the park can reduce energy consumption in single-product production by 12 percent. The proportion of clean energy used exceeds 50 percent, making it one of the leading green manufacturing parks in the country.
Around the World
Masdar City, UAE
Masdar City in Abu Dhabi is an example of zero-carbon urban development. The hub relies heavily on renewable energy, with a 10 MW photovoltaic plant and rooftop solar panels supplying clean electricity. Buildings are designed with energy-efficient materials and passive cooling systems, reducing energy consumption by over 50 percent. An autonomous electric transport system eliminates emissions from vehicles. Smart grid technology optimizes energy distribution and storage, while treated wastewater is reused to conserve resources.
BedZED, UK
BedZED in London blends residential and business spaces within a zero-carbon framework. Solar panels generate renewable electricity, while super-insulated walls and triple-glazed windows minimize heating and cooling needs. Heat recovery systems further improve efficiency. Rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling reduce resource consumption, and electric vehicle charging points encourage sustainable transportation. Buildings are made from locally sourced, low-carbon materials, emphasizing sustainability from construction to operation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
