Sustainability Tour 2024 - Weekly Blog#2: Sustainable Lifestyle
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EU-China Incubator for New Green Technology
European Union, 2024
European Union, 2024
Baojong cycled to the China-EU Institute for Clean and Renewable Energy (ICARE), at Huazhong University of Science & Technology in Wuhan. It was a ride of 6.5 km, reducing carbon emissions by around 1.3 kg.
The Institute is an example of EU-China cooperation in the fields of education and scientific research. Baojong learned how an international educational environment and advanced research facilities provided by ICARE trains professionals with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in clean energy and generates innovative ideas and solutions for global energy challenges. Financed by the EU, the center facilitates technical exchanges and talent development, enhancing the Institute's research and educational capabilities in the field of clean energy. A prime example of this collaboration is the Institute’s ongoing research on supercritical carbon dioxide power cycle systems, which illustrates how EU-China cooperation drives innovation in energy technology.
While visiting the Institute’s laboratories, Baojong learned about some of the latest cutting-edge developments in clean energy technologies. These technologies are expected to provide new solutions for global energy challenges. He saw an achievements wall displaying a series of accomplishments of the Institute under the framework of EU-China cooperation. With a combination of teaching programs and research projects, the Institute contributes to the promotion of environmental sustainability. While chatting with graduates from the Institute, Baojong heard about how they apply the lessons to their career development and lifestyle.
A trip to the EU-China Sustainable Energy Village: Rural Sustainable Energy Network Project
Location: Jing’an Township, Zhangye, Gansu Province
European Union, 2024
European Union, 2024
On this trip, Sun Fengren cycled on the rural and country road in Jing’an Township, Zhangye for 10 km, saving around 2 kg of carbon emissions.
During this visit, Sun Fengren gained insight into the "Rural Sustainable Energy Integrated Network Project" (RurEnergy Project), a collaborative effort under the EU-China partnership. Implemented within the EU’s Switch-Asia Programme, the project aims to foster transition to sustainable energy in rural regions. The EU and China jointly support the implementation of this initiative by providing technical assistance, business model innovations, and financial case studies. The project team has incorporated advanced European technologies and applied successful examples from other Chinese provinces to enhance the project's impact.
In discussion with Sun Fengren, the project team leader highlighted that the initiative has significantly improved local quality of life. Technologies, such as solar thermal systems, have enhanced heating quality and reduced environmental pollution. Sun Fengren, in his discussions with residents, observed a notable improvement in daily comfort since the adoption of renewable energy.
Sun Fengren believes that this project not only advances energy-efficient upgrades for rural homes, but also promotes the use of renewable energy, effectively reducing reliance on coal. These efforts have collectively improved environmental conditions and enhanced public health. Through projects like this, Sun Fengren sees the positive impact of EU-China cooperation in driving sustainable development.
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During this week’s tour, we experienced sustainable lifestyles in Zhangye, Gansu Province and Wuhan, Hubei Province following the journeys of @孙疯人and @Baojong. Baojong understands better the impact of EU-China cooperation on education, the positive role of environmental protection practices, and the importance of cultural exchanges. In Zhangye, Sun Fengren saw how the rural sustainable energy system can help improve the local community’s living standards. The cooperation between the EU and China on low-carbon training and knowledge sharing on sustainable energy can make a positive impact on the environment and on people’s lives. These practices may inspire more people to contribute to a more sustainable society.
Our next stop will be Beijing. What stories about EU-China cooperation on sustainability will we find there? Follow the Sustainability Tour to find out!
