A sheep pen located in Lyushan township, Changxing county, Huzhou. [Photo/hz66.com]

Changxing county in Huzhou has been actively advancing its low-carbon development initiatives in support of the nation's goal of reaching peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.

A significant milestone in the county's decarbonization efforts is the implementation of a low-carbon approach to the breeding of Huzhou sheep in Lyushan township.

This innovative approach has given rise to a pioneering development model, where sheep houses are powered by rooftop photovoltaic panels and controlled by a digital system, while grass is cultivated beneath the houses. This sustainable model is expected to save 20,000 metric tons of standard coal annually and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 37,000 tons per year.

Next to the sheep pen is an asparagus plantation. Sheep feces are fermented and reintroduced to the asparagus plantation, resulting in increased asparagus yields. In turn, asparagus straw can be repurposed as feed for the sheep.

This ecological cycle not only addresses the challenges of seasonal feed shortages and inadequate nutrition for Huzhou sheep during winter and spring but also enhances organic matter in soil. This model is expected to reduce pesticide usage by over 20 percent, achieve a livestock manure recycling rate of over 98 percent, and realize a comprehensive straw utilization rate of over 95 percent.

On top of the livestock industry, the local government has implemented a range of measures to reduce carbon emissions in other sectors, such as accommodation.

Shuikou township, a town in northern Zhejiang known for its homestays, is home to nearly 600 homestays, generating an average of about 80 kilograms of diverse waste per day during peak seasons. The local government has introduced a user-friendly app for the recycling of waste materials and products. Villagers can now place orders via the app, with the recycling company promptly collecting the items, thereby enhancing convenience for the community and improving the rural landscape.

Additionally, tourists can actively participate in local carbon-reduction initiatives to earn credits, which can later be exchanged for items such as dried bamboo shoots and Zisun tea at the online store developed by the government.