In a special program titled “Green Talks with Mayors” on The Hub, Wang Guan interviewed Wang Zhihua, Deputy Mayor of Chengdu in the Chinese mainland, and Eckart Würzner, Lord Mayor of Heidelberg, Germany. The discussion centered on how cities worldwide are implementing green, low-carbon, and sustainable agendas, and how they can collaborate by sharing skills, knowledge, and experiences to achieve tangible results.
Chengdu, the capital of southwest China’s Sichuan province, is renowned as a “park city.” The city has been pioneering initiatives at the community and grassroots levels to promote recycling and decarbonization. One of the standout projects is the “sky garden” in Angong, an old community that has gained widespread attention by transforming rooftops into verdant spaces. This initiative not only enhances urban aesthetics but also contributes to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
Deputy Mayor Wang Zhihua highlighted Chengdu’s commitment to integrating green spaces into urban development. “By turning idle rooftops into gardens, we are creating a more livable environment and promoting ecological consciousness among residents,” he said.
Meanwhile, Heidelberg, located in southwest Germany, has been advancing its own sustainability efforts. Lord Mayor Eckart Würzner discussed the city’s “passive housing project,” which aims to decarbonize Heidelberg by improving energy efficiency. The project involves constructing buildings that require minimal energy for heating or cooling, thereby reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sustainable lifestyle for residents.
“Our goal is to make Heidelberg a carbon-neutral city,” Mayor Würzner explained. “By investing in energy-efficient infrastructure, we are not only reducing our environmental footprint but also setting an example for other cities to follow.”
The exchange between the mayors underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. Both leaders emphasized that sharing successful strategies can accelerate the global transition to sustainable urban living.
Wang Guan concluded the program by noting the significance of such dialogues. “When cities join hands and learn from each other’s experiences, we can collectively make our world greener and more sustainable,” he said.
Reference(s):
The Hub: green talks with the Mayors of Chengdu and Heidelberg
cgtn.com
