Airbus launches recycling scheme and carbon credits take off: China Quick Take

China Quick Take brings you six stories you may have missed last week.

Grain output hits record high

In 2023, China achieved a record-breaking grain output of 695.4 million tonnes, marking the ninth consecutive year of delivering over 650 million tonnes. Per-capita grain output surpassed 490 kilograms, exceeding the global security threshold. Rural industries, especially e-commerce, thrived, with 2023 online retail sales reaching 2.49 trillion yuan ($350.8 billion).

This robust growth in agriculture and rural areas supported economic recovery, lifting over 33 million people out of poverty. Rural incomes grew by 7.6 percent. 

Aircraft recycling project launched

Airbus launched its global aircraft recycling initiative, the Airbus Lifecycle Services Center (ALSC), in Chengdu, China. Covering 60 hectares with a 6 billion yuan ($849 million) investment, ALSC will handle various aircraft types and facilitate the global resale of reusable parts.

The project aims to achieve eco-friendly recycling of 90 percent of aircraft, contributing to a more sustainable aviation industry. Airbus foresees the ALSC opening as a significant step in enhancing China-Europe cooperation.

EV charging piles see growth

China saw a 51-percent year-on-year growth in the number of public charging piles for electric vehicles (EVs) in 2023. Charging piles generally provide two charging modes: regular charging and quick charging.  The number of public charging piles rose by 930,000 in 2023 from the previous year, Cui Dongshu, secretary general of the China Passenger Car Association, said.

China has been expanding its charging facilities for electric vehicles in recent years, with nearly 2.46 million private charging piles added in 2023 alone,  placing the country in a leading position in its number of charging piles.

First carbon credits deal completed

The first transaction was completed as China's voluntary carbon market for greenhouse gas reductions was revamped in Beijing.

China National Offshore Oil Corporation, the largest offshore oil and gas producer in the country, has purchased 250,000 tonnes of carbon credits to offset its emissions. One tonne of carbon credits can offset one tonne of carbon dioxide emissions.

Xinjiang education reaches all-time highs

The implementation of the education beneficiaries project in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has led to the highest levels there for preschool education, nine-year compulsory education, high school education, higher education and vocational education, an expert said on Wednesday.

Remina Xiaokaiti, a human rights expert at Xinjiang University, emphasized universal education rights for all ethnic groups, noting 15 years of free education, government-covered student lunches, and improved facilities. 

Wild giant panda population increase

China's wild giant panda population has surged from around 1,100 in the 1980s to nearly 1,900, according to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. This significant increase reflects global recognition of China's successful panda conservation efforts, affirmed by Zhang Yue, deputy director of the Wildlife Conservation Department.

China's comprehensive system of nature reserves and four nationwide surveys have contributed to safeguarding giant pandas and their habitats, attracting international attention to the nation's commitment to wildlife protection and habitat preservation.

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