Waste Classification Gaining Momentum

AFTER the revised regulation on domestic waste classification came into force in Beijing on May 1 this year, waste sorting has gained renewed public attention.

- YE XIAONAN & ZHU RUNHUA

In previous months, similar regulations were introduced in many cities across China, making the practice widespread. To help citizens adapt to and accept the new rules, local authorities have come up with creative methods to help citizens classify waste properly and understand the benefits of doing so.

Do It Right

The general public is open to the idea of waste classification, but initially there has been confusion regarding the appropriate way to go about it, such as how to differentiate between “kitchen waste,” “recyclables,” “hazardous waste,” and “other waste.” What to do when one cannot decide which waste goes in which bin? People often need help answering such questions.

In Sidao Street of Qingyang District, Chengdu City of Sichuan Province, a 150-meter stretch of wall is painted with instructional murals on the theme of waste classification. In the cartoons, Sichuan’s iconic giant panda cubs ask questions like, “Why do we need waste classification?” and “How do we put the recyclables to an environment-friendly use?” In response, their teacher, the deer, provides the answers. This kind of public education does not occupy much public space but effectively grabs public attention.

Local authorities have also developed games and other activities for residents’ participation. In one of them, kids put out dummy bins for different categories of waste, and watch their parents attempt to put items in the suitable bins respectively. In this manner, waste sorting gradually takes root among the people, and the concept of living green is embraced across society.

Xiong Feiyue, a community worker in Sidao Street, observed that thanks to community efforts, local residents are faring better in waste classification.