Chinese consumers are embracing low-carbon products, which are characterized by low-carbon emissions in both the production and usage stages, amid China's drive to boost the low-carbon economy, part of the efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
A recent survey by nonprofit organization the Energy Foundation shows that 41 percent of respondents are confident that low carbon can help reduce all kinds of waste. And businesses are adapting to this low-carbon and green transformation of the consumption pattern.
When buying things for their home – furniture or electric appliances – Chinese consumers are now thinking more about the eco-friendly ones free from harmful chemicals or emissions which can be harmful to one's health. Most people understand the importance of the issue and are ready to invest in them even though sometimes they can cost more.
Eco-friendly home appliances are displayed in a store in Shanghai, China. /CGTN
The Swedish furnishings giant IKEA, which just remodeled its first store on the Chinese mainland in Shanghai, added a special section to sell refurbished IKEA products that have been traded in by their original owners. Most sell at a discount to their original price, while new products are decorated with green labels showcasing their eco-friendly elements.
Many other retailers in Shanghai are also rolling out similar polices, offering discounts when consumers trade in old items like air conditioners, washing machines, refrigerators, televisions and even cell phones.
China's State Council last year released guidelines on the renovation of old residential areas, saying that China will strive to finish the rebuilding of all communities that need renovation by the end of 2025.
Shanghai is to renovate another 1.1 million square meters of old residential communities by the end of 2022, though some structures will be preserved to maintain the city's traditional ambiance. That's a guarantee that Shanghai will continue to have plenty of eco-friendly furniture and home appliances available in its shops.
