A Thriving Hub for Recycling and Circular Economy in China

The Ziya Economic Development Zone

In the heart of Tianjin's Ziya Economic Development Zone, a giant screen pulsates with real-time data, showcasing the intricate operations of Sinone Co., a leading player in China's recycling industry. Over 18,000 companies have joined forces on this online platform, contributing to the annual recycling of 4 million metric tons of materials, generating a staggering 88 billion yuan ($12 billion) in online trading volume over the past three years.

Within Sinone's facility, cutting-edge technology transforms whole vehicles into meticulously disassembled components within a mere 15 minutes, breathing new life into these materials for diverse applications. This remarkable efficiency exemplifies the Ziya zone's pioneering role in China's circular economy for the past three decades.

The zone has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a focus solely on dismantling renewable resources to a diverse industrial landscape encompassing new energy, new materials, new energy vehicles, and equipment manufacturing. This metamorphosis has established the "Ziya model" as a benchmark for circular economy development in China.

Fueled by the State Council's action plan announced in March 2024, the Ziya zone is poised for further growth. This plan aims to significantly increase the volume of recycled cars and discarded household appliances by 2027, aligning with the national strategy of increasing the proportion of recycled materials in overall resource supply.

Jinghai district, where the Ziya zone is located, has outlined an ambitious blueprint for the sector, aiming to upgrade its industry, enhance product quality, nurture key enterprises, expand industrial chains, and establish more industry standards. With 938 companies generating over 17 billion yuan in revenue in 2024, the Ziya zone is a testament to the district's commitment to sustainable development.

Since 2007, the zone has processed tens of millions of tons of recycled resources annually, supplying the market with approximately 1.5 million tons of recycled copper, aluminum, and other resources each year. This impressive feat has resulted in the management of nearly 10 million tons of scrap metal, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by almost 20 million tons – equivalent to saving 40 million tons of ore extraction.

Looking ahead, the Ziya zone has set an ambitious goal to attract at least 35 extended industrial chains within the next five years. This ambitious vision is aligned with the strategy of the newly established State-owned enterprise China Resources Recycling Group, which aims to enhance industrial chains and establish a nationwide platform for the sector.

With its unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, the Ziya Economic Development Zone is poised to remain a leading force in China's circular economy, contributing significantly to the country's environmental and economic goals.