Sustainability Tour 2024 - Weekly Blog#10: The Finish Line of an Enriching Tour

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Sustainability Tour 2024 - Weekly Blog#10: The Finish Line of an Enriching Tour

In week 10 of the Sustainability Tour 2024, we set off for Shanghai and Guangzhou, and closing our Tour in Beijing. Vloggers Shasha and Sunfengren cycled with EU diplomats in Shanghai and Guangzhou where they explored sustainable buildings and lifestyles in urban settings. By the end of the week, Sunfengren and Xiaoyu met in Beijing at the closing event of the Sustainability Tour, in the EU Delegation to China.

© European Union, 2024

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Cycling with Diplomats in Shanghai: Exploring Sustainable Architecture

Location: Huangpu District, Shanghai

This week, Shasha joined fellow cyclists from EU Member States on a 10-km bike ride from Binjiang 1339 Green Park to Qinhuangdao Wharf. By cycling instead of using a car powered by fossil fuels, each person saved 2 kg of carbon emissions.

Before the ride, Patricia Conceicao, Head of Press & Information for the EU Delegation to China, spoke to the participants reminding the purpose of the Sustainability Tour and that everyone can contribute to fighting climate change and protecting the planet through small actions like cycling.

During the ride, vlogger Shasha learned about sustainable practices from diplomats of EU Member States' Consulates General in Shanghai. Mikael Hemniti Winther, Consul General of Denmark to Shanghai, emphasized that, when promoting sustainable buildings, the top priority is reducing waste during the manufacturing process, followed by waste recycling. He also suggested that sustainable concepts and thinking should start in schools. The importance of sustainability should be integrated in their lessons to help children develop sustainable habits from an early age, such as recycling waste and conserving water and electricity.

The cycling team embarked on a captivating journey of discovery in Shanghai, exploring the European-style building clusters on the Bund. This historic area, home to 11 iconic buildings from the 1920s and 1930s, showcases some examples of European architectural design in China. Renowned for their elegant facades and intricate details, these structures have been carefully preserved and remain vibrant landmarks in the heart of the city. Once symbols of Shanghai's cosmopolitan past, they now exemplify how heritage and sustainability can merge.

These buildings have been equipped with green technologies, such as energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly operational practices. This fusion of tradition and innovation not only enhances their functionality, but also reduces their environmental footprint. Their preservation and sustainable transition symbolise the enduring cultural exchange and cooperation between Europe and China. By integrating green principles into these historic structures, Shanghai illustrates its commitment to a sustainable future, reaffirming the value of shared global efforts to embrace architectural practices that respect both history and the environment.

During conversations with other cyclists, Shasha heard stories about sustainable practices in their everyday life. Fellow cyclists shared how their local bike shops see a steady stream of customers, and how sustainable buildings are becoming more common. The emergence of sustainable practices in daily life reduce energy consumption and contribute to a more comfortable and convenient living environment.

The ride reinforced her appreciation for China and the EU's shared efforts to promote sustainable living. As more and more young people pay attention to sustainable architecture and lifestyles, there is greater potential for EU-China cooperation to raise public awareness and encourage participation.

Green Cycling Tour in Guangzhou: Sustainable Manufacturing by the Pearl River

Location: Guangzhou

In Guangzhou, Sunfengren embarked on a 10-km cycling tour, reducing carbon emissions by around 2 kg. The ride started from Shamian Island, which is known for its unique historical buildings and serves as a symbol of the origins of EU-China cultural exchange.

In his opening speech, Ádám Róma, Deputy Consul General at the Hungarian Consulate in Guangzhou, emphasized the EU's commitment to sustainability and becoming the world's first carbon-neutral continent by 2050. Guangzhou, as a leader in China's manufacturing industry, offers many examples of sustainable businesses.

Along the bike ride in Guangzhou, a local tour guide highlighted some fascinating details about sustainable manufacturing, such as the smart streetlights and smart pedestrian crossings at Haizhu Square, sustainable materials used in the renovation of Haizhu Bridge, and wind and solar energy systems at the Canton Tower. We also learned how Guangzhou utilizes sustainable technologies to reduce carbon emissions and how environmental principles are being implemented.

Sunfengren also engaged in discussions with some participants of the bike ride, asking about their views on EU-China environmental cooperation. Young people are increasingly recognizing the importance of low-carbon commuting and other daily activities. When people choose to cycle, in addition to living a healthier life, they are also embracing an eco-friendly mode of transport, which supports urban sustainability.

Sunfengren believes that the actions and enthusiasm of these young people are helping to spread the concept of sustainability and that more people can benefit from EU-China cooperation projects. It is clear to him that young people are truly contributing to a more sustainable future.

This cycling tour was not only an opportunity to learn about cooperation between China and the EU, but also to put the concept of sustainability into practice. Every turn of our bike pedals symbolizes a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Through their combined efforts, individuals can contribute to tangible results, benefiting their cities and the entire planet.

Sustainability Tour 2024 Closing Ceremony: A farewell inspiring future cooperation

Location: Delegation of the European Union to China, Beijing

On November 22, the Sustainability Tour 2024 concluded with a closing ceremony at the EU Delegation in Beijing. Vloggers Xiaoyu and Sunfengren joined EU and Chinese friends to reflect on the 10-week journey and look ahead to further EU-China cooperation in sustainability.

From the south of China to the north, from green fields to bustling cities, EU-China cooperation projects have not only contributed to effective green transition, but also to improve public understanding and participation in environmental protection.

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Over the past 10 weeks, the Sustainability Tour 2024 has taken us to various cities and villages in China where we have explored the possibilities of EU-China cooperation on sustainability. Although this tour has come to an end, our commitment to sustainability continues. In the future, we hope to see more EU-China projects implemented and more people contributing to green mobility and sustainability.

Stay sustainable!