Composting

The city's strategy relies on localized processing to reduce the logistical strain of waste transport. In the Jiaxing Road subdistrict of Hongkou, a pilot project currently processes 100 kilograms of kitchen waste daily using microbial degradation.

Lei Guoxing, Party secretary of the residential community, said the resulting fertilizer is used for community greening.

Previously, residents faced issues such as odor, noise from waste transportation and doubts about the effectiveness of waste recycling, which hindered long-term adherence to waste sorting.

"Now, with kitchen waste being transformed into fertilizer for plants at their doorsteps, residents can directly experience how waste is turned into treasure, helping to establish a closed loop of value recognition for waste classification and reinforcing their habit of waste sorting," Lei said.

In the subdistrict office's cafeteria, the zero-waste concept has taken root as well. Biodegradable tableware is used and biodegradable food bags are available for packing leftover food.

"We have eliminated single-use non-degradable items, opting for biodegradable materials for all tableware and packaging, ensuring both environmental friendliness and safety," said Zhao Zhengya, the cafeteria's manager.

The cafeteria also has a dedicated counter for smaller portion dishes, which has contributed to an 80 percent reduction in kitchen waste, according to Zhao.