Exploring SZ's green future: Uzbekistan delegation visits model low-carbon projects

A government and business delegation from Uzbekistan embarked on an inspiring low-carbon journey in Shenzhen on Oct. 29, gaining first-hand insights into the city’s pioneering achievements in sustainable innovation and industrial transformation.

The visit formed part of the 2025 Shenzhen National Low-Carbon City Forum, which showcases the city’s progress in developing and applying green and low-carbon technologies.

From green packaging to circular beauty

The delegation’s first stop was Shenzhen Beauty Star, a national leader in cosmetic packaging and new materials. The company has helped draft more than 40 national and industry standards and supplies over 90% of the world’s top beauty and skincare brands.

Through innovations in eco-friendly materials and circular packaging solutions, Beauty Star is injecting sustainability and creativity into the global beauty industry.

Uzbekistan delegation members listen to the introduction of the Longgang Energy Ecological Park beside a sand table Oct. 29. Photos by Liu Xudong

“I was very impressed,” said Ulugbek Mukhtarov from Vostok Merkuriy Company. “We are considering further cooperation. In Uzbekistan, waste management is also becoming a serious issue. Recycling and circular economy approaches are strategically important for both business and the environment.”

Waste-to-energy landmark blends ecology and architecture

The next destination was the Longgang Energy Ecological Park, one of China’s largest waste-to-energy plants. Covering 542,000 square meters, the park integrates a massive rooftop photovoltaic system, turning the facility into a producer of clean electricity.

Its design draws inspiration from traditional Hakka walled villages, symbolizing harmony between technology and nature. Recognized by Yale University’s 2023 publication About Architecture as one of the 55 most representative modern buildings worldwide, the park stands as both an engineering marvel and an environmental milestone.

“I saw many factories that are transforming the world,” said Mukhtarov. “This one is the largest and most environmentally friendly — with smart design and zero emissions. It’s one of the most beautiful architectural achievements I’ve ever seen.”

Urban farming brings ‘sky farms’ to life

The journey concluded at Shenzhen Haizhuo Biotechnology, a company pioneering AI-driven vertical farming that integrates agriculture into urban life. Using IoT systems and hydroponic technology, Haizhuo transforms idle rooftops into productive “sky farms”—lush green spaces that cool buildings, cut energy consumption, and absorb carbon emissions.

Uzbekistan delegation members visit a rooftop farm Oct. 29.

“This technology really impressed us,” said Islom Sadullaev from Titan Bukhara company. “We plan to introduce similar systems in Uzbekistan.”

Shenzhen’s low-carbon blueprint

Both Beauty Star and Haizhuo Biotechnology were named as 2025 demonstration bases by the Shenzhen National Low-Carbon City Forum, while the Longgang Energy Ecological Park received the same recognition in 2023.

Since 2022, the forum has selected 36 green and low-carbon demonstration bases, spanning energy, construction, industry, transportation, finance, and education. Together, they represent a practical and visionary “Shenzhen Solution” to global sustainable development.

As Mukhtarov reflected, “Cities are growing fast, and energy issues are becoming more urgent. This visit gave us valuable ideas for the future.”