Billions of tonnes of agricultural waste, such as crop residues, are generated globally each year. At this year's China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, companies showcased innovative technologies to transform this waste into energy and sustainable products.

One company is leveraging crop straw, farm waste and other biomass materials to produce polylactic acid (PLA). Approximately four tonnes of straw yield one tonne of polylactic acid and one tonne of wood plastic materials. PLA is a prominent bio-based plastic alternative to petroleum-based plastics, requiring less energy to produce than traditional thermoplastics, making it a more environmentally friendly option. It can be used in consumer products such as disposable tableware, cutlery and medical supplies. 

Another company is converting crop straw, wood dust and other farm waste into biomass gas, biochar and even charcoal carving products. Biochar can be used in soil to increase aeration and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.

For more:

Green Solutions: How companies turn waste into valuable products

(Cover image designed by CGTN's Liang Qian)