The Circular Economy Show Podcast The circular economy: a ‘triple play’ climate solution for China | Circling Back
Aug 26, 2025
Lei Chen, a circular economy researcher with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, dives into China's pivotal role in addressing climate change through circular strategies. They explore China's historical roots in circular practices and the 2008 Circular Economy Promotion Law. Chen discusses how linking consumption strategies to carbon neutrality can yield significant emission reductions. With a 'triple-play' solution involving emission cuts, material security, and resilience enhancement, he highlights transformative potential for key sectors like plastics and mobility.
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Ancient Circular Farming Example
- Lei Chen describes the ancient Mulberry, Silkworm and Fish Pond system as an early circular economy in China dating back 2,500 years.
- She highlights how leftovers fed fish and fish waste fertilized mulberry trees creating a closed natural cycle.
Policy Roots And Eco-Industrial Parks
- China formalised circular economy policy in the mid-2000s, focusing initially on reduce, reuse and recycle and pollution control.
- Lei Chen points to the 2008 Circular Economy Promotion Law and eco-industrial parks as early milestones.
From Waste Control To Climate Strategy
- China is shifting circular economy attention from waste management to consumption and linking it to climate goals including carbon neutrality by 2060.
- Lei Chen says circular practices are now seen as vital for emissions reduction and climate resilience.