Jointly Promoting the Development of “Zero-Waste City Cells” to Support “Zero-Waste Cities” Construction and Sustainable Development Goals
Shanghai (November 6, 2024) – At the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), Cargill and the China Environmental Protection Foundation (CEPF) signed a cooperation agreement to launch a three-year “Green Action Initiative” together. The initiative aims to promote sustainable production and lifestyle practices, reduce solid waste generation, and advance the development of ‘Zero-Waste Cities,’ working toward national carbon neutrality goals.
Sustainable development has become a global consensus now. At the same time,China recognizes the importance of ecological civilization construction and strives to balance economic growth and environmental protection in progressing toward national dual carbon goals. The ‘Zero-Waste City Cell’ initiative is a key action in promoting the construction of ‘Zero-Waste Cities,’ which aims to reduce solid waste production and promote recycling to minimize negative environmental impact.
Chunlong LIU, Secretary-General of the China Environmental Protection Foundation, stated, " Promoting sustainable development and achieving dual carbon goals has become a shared responsibility for all. Cargill has been our long-term partner for over a decade, and we are delighted to deepen our collaboration through the Green Action Initiative. We hope to develop more cases to foster the construction of ‘Zero-Waste City Cells, 'driving the sustainable transformation of the industry and continued development of society."
Linlin LIU, Managing Director of Commercial, Cargill Agricultural Supply Chain North Asia, said, “As a multinational company with a 159-year history, Cargill has always committed to promoting the global food and agricultural industry’s sustainable development through innovation and collaboration. We deeply understand that sustainability is a corporate responsibility and the key to humanity's long-term prosperity. Our partnership with the China Environmental Protection Foundation to jointly promote ‘Zero-Waste Cell’ development is important in achieving sustainable development. By deepening our collaboration with partners and broadening new opportunities in sustainability transformation, Cargill aims to contribute to China’s ‘dual carbon' goals.”
As part of the “Green Action Initiative,” Cargill will partner with the China Environmental Protection Foundation to launch a series of activities, including contributing to the first ‘Zero-Waste City Cells’ construction in areas where Cargill agriculture and trade businesses operate. These areas include Rizhao City, Shandong Province; Nantong City, Jiangsu Province; Dongguan City and Yangjiang City, Guangdong Province. Construction will cover various scenaios, including zero-waste farms, schools, and scenic areas. Over the next three years, Cargill will support the establishment of more ‘Zero-Waste City Cells’ and develop them into long-term volunteer bases, encouraging active participation from Cargill employees, local communities, students, and teachers and fostering strong relationships among communities. Additionally, Cargill and CEPF will jointly compile a ‘Zero-Waste Cell Development Manual’ to provide samples and experiences for other corporations. Cargill will work with various stakeholders during this project to accelerate the implementation of the ‘Zero-Waste City Cell’ initiative.
In the future, CEPF will continue to uphold an open and cooperative attitude, closely collaborate with partners from all sectors, and continuously explore environmental protection solutions suitable to China's national conditions, contributing wisdom and strength to the construction of a beautiful China.