As the world accelerates towards carbon neutrality, zero-carbon parks emerge as pivotal models for sustainable industrial growth. These parks integrate green technologies and innovative practices to achieve low-carbon, high-quality development, aligning with global carbon peak and neutrality targets.
At the Central Economic Work Conference in December, Chinese leaders emphasized the importance of green transition for economic priorities leading up to 2025. Zero-carbon parks are essential in this strategy, supporting China’s \"dual carbon\" goals of peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2060.
Leading Examples in China
Xiongan New Area
Located in northern Hebei Province, Xiongan New Area hosts major green projects, including a new energy ecological park launched in June. This park boasts an integrated solar photovoltaic system and utilizes ground and air source heat pumps to meet zero-carbon building standards. A smart low-carbon management system operates the park, targeting a reduction of 10,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Tianjin Port
Tianjin Port in northern China exemplifies environmental protection through advanced technologies. The port achieves green energy self-sufficiency with wind turbines and photovoltaic plants generating its electricity. Zero-carbon smart wharves feature new energy systems with a total installed capacity of 78 megawatts, producing 180 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. Additionally, electric charging stations for heavy trucks enhance the port’s sustainability.
CRRC Zero Carbon Industrial Park
Completed on December 26 in Zhuzhou, Hunan Province, the CRRC Zero-Carbon Industrial Park leverages low-carbon technologies such as waste heat recovery, solar integration, energy storage, and charging systems. These innovations reduce energy consumption in single-product production by 12 percent, with over 50 percent of the energy used coming from clean sources, positioning it as a leading green manufacturing park in China.
Global Innovations
Masdar City, UAE
Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City is a flagship zero-carbon urban development. Powered by a 10 MW photovoltaic plant and rooftop solar panels, the city relies heavily on renewable energy. Energy-efficient building designs and passive cooling systems cut energy consumption by more than half. An autonomous electric transport system eliminates vehicle emissions, while smart grid technology optimizes energy distribution and storage. Additionally, treated wastewater is reused, conserving vital resources.
BedZED, UK
Located in London, BedZED integrates residential and business spaces within a zero-carbon framework. Renewable electricity is generated via solar panels, and super-insulated walls along with triple-glazed windows minimize heating and cooling needs. Heat recovery systems enhance efficiency further. The park employs rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling to reduce resource consumption, and electric vehicle charging points promote sustainable transportation. Buildings utilize locally sourced, low-carbon materials, ensuring sustainability from construction through operation.
These zero-carbon parks, both in China and around the globe, demonstrate the viable pathways to achieving sustainable industrial development and carbon neutrality. By embracing innovative technologies and sustainable practices, these parks serve as beacons of environmental stewardship and economic progress.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
