An international conference aimed at promoting the use of bamboo as a substitute for plastic is held in Huzhou's Anji county on Aug 16. [Photo/hz66.com]

An international conference aimed at promoting the use of bamboo as a substitute for plastic was held in Huzhou's Anji county on Aug 16.

In 2022, the Chinese government, in collaboration with the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization (INBAR), launched the "substituting plastic with bamboo" initiative. The goal is to encourage the use of bamboo as an alternative to plastic. Strong efforts are being made to promote this initiative for the betterment of both humanity and the planet.

During his speech at the conference, Martin Mpana, a member of the INBAR council and Cameroon's ambassador to China, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. He called for collective efforts to reduce plastic usage and embrace nature-based alternatives, thus ensuring a cleaner and greener world for future generations.

Tan Guangming, deputy director of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, highlighted Zhejiang's leading role in driving ecological civilization construction in China. Zhejiang, birthplace of the concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets", has taken steps to implement the "substituting plastic with bamboo" initiative, with Anji leading the way.

Xu Wenguang, vice governor of Zhejiang, stated the province's commitment to increasing the utilization of bamboo products as substitutes in various industries, including construction, decoration, furniture, tableware, paper, packaging, and transportation. Zhejiang also aims to explore innovative reforms in establishing carbon sinks with bamboo forests and develop the bamboo industry in a region-specific manner to benefit local farmers.

In addition, Xu emphasized the necessity of strengthening collaboration with domestic and international partners to find feasible solutions for substituting various plastic products with low-carbon bamboo alternatives. This approach will not only contribute to energy conservation and emissions reductions but also solidify Zhejiang's position as a frontrunner in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.

Diplomats from countries such as Uruguay, the Dominican Republic, Uganda, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, Panama, Colombia, Nepal, Peru, and Laos also attended the event, demonstrating international interest in and support for the "substituting plastic with bamboo" initiative.