Waste management: the importance of informal waste collectors in China's circular economy

Predicting waste generation at source

Over the past decade, Chinese cities, including major urban centres such as Beijing and Shanghai, have experienced remarkable economic growth and urbanisation. However, this unprecedented growth has been accompanied by a significant increase in waste production. While the formal waste management sector faces challenges, the informal sector, including waste pickers, plays a vital role in recycling and diverting waste from landfills.

This article explores the complex world of informal waste collection in China, highlights opportunities for a more sustainable waste management system, and emphasises the importance of individual actions in tackling waste-related issues.

China, a model of reuse

China is a country with a thousand-year-old tradition, and its culture is deeply rooted in resource conservation and efficiency. This mentality is reflected in the way the Chinese approach waste reuse.

In China, it is common to reuse objects, whatever they may be. For example, a water bottle can be used for 10 years or more, and a glass jar can be turned into a tea cup.

A glass fruit jar turned into a water bottle

The effectiveness of the informal waste recycling sector

China's informal waste collection sector goes far beyond mere subsistence; it is a dynamic ecosystem that has long been at the forefront of recycling various materials, including electrical appliances, plastics and metals. Benjamin Steuer, a graduate student at the University of Vienna, points out that this sector has saved significant amounts of money, amounting to hundreds of millions of yuan for cities such as Beijing.

Paper, cardboard and plastic in particular are at the heart of this informal sector. These materials are often recycled and transformed into new products within 10 to 15 days of being discarded, demonstrating the efficiency of the system.

Challenges of e-commerce and consumption

Alibaba's sales exceeded RMB 200 billion (€25,653,123,380) on 11 November 2018.

11 November in China is ‘Singles' Day’. It is a celebration of mass consumption. This commercial event, similar to ‘Black Friday’, contributes significantly to the surge in packaging waste, resulting in higher prices. The growth of the event has led to a sharp increase in demand for paper and cardboard. Indeed, the rise of e-commerce giants and delivery services has led to a relentless demand for cardboard and plastic packaging.

While large companies such as Amazon are using new packaging for their deliveries, recycling is common practice in China. Individuals regularly recycle their boxes, a small but nevertheless important step towards sustainability.

It is easy to see packaging that is often used and reused in China.

A path to follow

As China's major cities grapple with growing waste challenges, they must consider integrating the informal sector to improve efficiency and sustainability. The need to build recycling plants, develop new collection systems, and construct more incinerators while managing an increase in waste is a daunting task.

Designing for tomorrow

The waste problem is one of the most pressing issues facing our planet. In 2022, the world produced more than 2.5 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste, more than at any other time in history. This amount is expected to increase by a further 70% by 2050, reaching 3.4 billion tonnes.

One of the main factors contributing to the waste crisis is the excessive production of single-use products. These products, such as plastic packaging, disposable cups and cutlery, are often thrown away after a single use, contributing to soil, ocean and air pollution.

Waste from the sea after the storm

To tackle the problem of waste at source, design for tomorrow has become an essential tool. An eco-design agency tells us that 70% to 80% of environmental impacts are determined during the design phase of a product or service. By working from the very beginning of a product's life cycle, eco-design agencies aim to avoid waste and implement more sustainable practices. This proactive approach is essential for tackling the root causes of waste generation and promoting a circular economy. Companies must design products that can last longer and be easily repaired, reducing the need for replacement purchases. Companies must incorporate recycled materials and renewable resources into their products, reducing their dependence on virgin materials.

Although the scale of change required may seem daunting, every little effort counts. As individuals, communities and nations, we must collectively commit to protecting the environment. By reducing waste, supporting green initiatives and taking action, we can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable world.

Furthermore, we must consider the significant impact of eco-design on waste reduction and apply this concept to minimise waste at the product and service design stage. These measures, combined with individual actions such as recycling and responsible consumption, can reverse the trend and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future. Together, we can tackle the waste challenge and create a cleaner world for future generations.

Reference:

1. Chinadialogue.(2018 July 30) New waste policies leave informal traders struggling. Wang Chen. Beijing

2. Chinadialogue. Pollution (2017 June 5) China to release plan for tackling e-waste by end of year. Feng Hao

3. Ifeng. (2020 mars 20) En ramassant les déchets pour acheter deux maisons et en recyclant les déchets, ne voulez-vous pas vous laisser transformer par Internet ? Jilin. 

4. Collective Responsibility (2017 June 27). New report: informal waste management in China. Richard BRUBAKER. Shanghai. Blog 

5. news.cn (2022,Novembre,12 ) “双11”当天全国快递处理量达5.52亿件, 新华社

6. Recyclage des canettes et des verres 

7. NBC News (2018 novembre 11). Alibaba’s Singles Day Sales Top $30 Billion. The Party May Not Last.Raymond Zhong.

8. La nouvelle république(2023 Octobre 2023 ). Tempête Céline : les plages de Vendée submergées par des tonnes de déchets plastiques. Pollution Vendée. 

The design engine of tomorrow

16 octobre 2023 à 07h30

‘Eco-friendly design helps preserve the environment by reducing the negative impact of products.’

Trashaus was founded in China in 2019. In 2022, it was registered as a Parametric ecological design office on the west coast of France, in Les Sables d'Olonne. Its goal is to help manufacturers reduce the negative impact of their products on the environment.

Maxence LOISSON de Guinaumont, co-founder of Paramétrique, shares his vision: "I lived in China for eight years. I worked as Industrial Design Director for a major electronics manufacturer. I saw opportunities for improvement in the field of ecology. But in technology, as in many other fields, time is money, and opportunities to challenge design methods and propose new ideas are rare. Yet eco-design is a real lever for innovation and differentiation from the competition.

As for my partner, Wang Junying, she has worked for companies in the Mi ecosystem, Himalaya Technology, and an Australian sustainable development consulting firm in Shanghai. She noticed that not all projects were living up to their environmental commitments. So we decided to take action, and in 2019, we launched this sustainable development project with our partners.

Junying WANG and Maxence LOISSON de GUINAUMONT

Recycling plastic waste

Maxence goes on to explain: "Our experience with sustainable projects began with transforming plastic waste into entirely new products. We participated in the Uber Eats project in China, using their own recycled materials to manufacture delivery boxes. Although the overall plastic recycling rate in France is relatively low (only 20%), thanks to the impetus of selective collection, some private sectors are already achieving recycling rates of 80%. This industry is becoming increasingly organised. Even though waste recycling remains a task for the future, we firmly believe that in five to ten years, plastic will no longer dominate. I think sorting centres can solve this problem without having to rely entirely on designers like us.

Our area of intervention begins at the earliest stages of product design, which has a direct impact on 70% to 80% of the overall environmental impact.

Paramétrique's start-up project has received support from Réseau Entreprendre Vendée. It is currently in the early stages of development and has received a grant of €25,000. Its mission is to establish a solid foothold in the local small and medium-sized business market and achieve a turnover of €91,000 in its first year.

The plants in the recycled plastic flower pots in front of the new headquarters building are thriving, demonstrating the success of the eco-friendly design.

Paramétrique is involved in several major recycled materials projects, including the Kleeklee embossed flower pot project. Kleeklee aims to develop a unique design for environmentally friendly flower pots. These flower pots are made from recycled materials, using 3D printing technology and a large-format granule 3D printer. Product features include structural strength, recycled plastics, environmentally friendly design, high-performance triangles, and innovative and unique design.

Kami camera series

Customer testimonial

Feedback from Paramétrique's customers highlights the success of Kami Care's eco-friendly camera project. Faced with various challenges, including designing an attractive, functional product that delivers high-quality video and complies with toy standards, Kami succeeded thanks to its environmentally friendly design approach, the key points of which are as follows:

1. Choice of natural materials: Kami opted to use fabric instead of plastic and rubber shells wrapped in fabric, as well as a food-grade silicone cover. This provides a more advanced texture while offering a more peaceful user experience.

2. Reduced environmental footprint and sustainability: By using sustainably recycled materials, Kami has significantly reduced its environmental impact, with a 25% reduction in waste production across its entire product range. This approach has also increased the sustainability and quality of the products, extending their lifespan. The design of products and accessories is optimised to extend their life cycle, benefiting both users and the environment.

3. Increased profit margin: By shifting from a low-margin business model to one based on high-quality products with higher margins, Kami Care has likely seen a significant increase in profitability. This allows the company to generate more revenue while ensuring product sustainability.

4. Design for tomorrow: Kami's designs focus on reducing environmental impact through the use of energy-efficient LED technology. The night light diffused through the wall has been chosen to avoid dazzling the baby's eyes, with adjustable brightness and a softer light to protect the baby's delicate eyes.

5. Impact on price: You mention that the standard Kami camera model sells for €19.99, while the Kami model with an environmentally friendly design sells for $149. This shows that customers are willing to pay a higher price for better quality and environmentally friendly products. It may also indicate that the market is willing to support products that have a lower environmental impact, even if they cost more.

6. Efficiency and functionality: Kami products offer an excellent balance between efficiency and functionality, all in compact, user-friendly packaging.

7. Data confidentiality and security: Kami's design incorporates measures to ensure data confidentiality and security, thereby strengthening user confidence. A high-precision metal shaft has been chosen, guaranteeing superior quality and peace of mind. Belief in the durability and quality of these products encourages customers to invest more, even if the price is higher.

8. User-centred design: A design method that places user needs at the heart of the process to ensure the product is easy to use and practical. When the product is switched off, it becomes a beautiful decoration or toy in the user's home.

9. Timeless aesthetics: Despite continuous technological developments, Kami products retain a timeless aesthetic, thus preserving their appeal.

10. Adapting to market trends: Kami is responding to growing demand in the US market for environmentally friendly products that offer privacy and versatility.

Overall, Kami's market success is based on its environmentally friendly designs, which respond to changing consumer needs and promote sustainable products. This approach contributed to the success of Kami's crowdfunding campaign. To summarise this process, an in-depth analysis of customer profiles, sales channels and usage scenarios must be conducted, while defining clear specifications for the product.

In summary, Kami's success in the global market in 2020 and beyond is proof of its eco-centric design approach. The product's design incorporates sustainability, functionality, user-friendliness and data security, thereby meeting the changing needs and values of consumers. As a result, Kami continues to thrive in a competitive market, as evidenced by the £9,000 raised through Indiegogo in 2020, thanks to 914 contributors, as well as the £7,000 raised on 24 January 2020 with the support of 741 contributors. These figures clearly demonstrate the product's success. 🌱

Paramétrique is here to support the growth of your hardware business with our forward-thinking designs.

"To clearly define the product design philosophy, thoroughly analyse the customer profile, sales channels and usage scenarios.

Transform the information gathered into a clear specification document.

Have a comprehensive overview, including a thorough analysis of market needs, product concept and risks."

The Kami team and CEO Da