Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the innovative waste management practices in Xiamen, showcasing how the city transforms waste into valuable resources while promoting environmental awareness among residents [1][4][16]. Waste Management Practices - Xiamen has implemented a unique garbage classification system, reducing the number of waste disposal points from 36,000 to over 4,000, categorizing waste into four main types: other waste, recyclable materials, kitchen waste, and hazardous waste [4][14]. - The city has established smart garbage collection points that enhance the aesthetics of the community while facilitating proper waste disposal [2][5]. Community Engagement - Community initiatives, such as the establishment of recycling public welfare centers, allow residents to exchange recyclable materials for rewards, promoting active participation in waste classification [7][12]. - The local government has successfully raised awareness among residents about the importance of waste classification, leading to improved participation rates across all age groups [5][16]. Technological Integration - Xiamen has developed a low-value recyclable material sorting center, utilizing advanced technologies like near-infrared scanning and AI visual recognition to enhance sorting accuracy, achieving a classification accuracy rate of over 95% [11][14]. - The sorting center has a processing capacity of 30,000 tons per year, significantly contributing to the city's waste management efficiency [13]. Environmental Impact - The city has achieved a resource utilization rate of approximately 90% for municipal waste, with over 50% of waste being recycled [14][16]. - Xiamen's waste management model has been recognized internationally, being featured as an exemplary case at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference [14]. Innovative Recycling - Recycled materials are transformed into new products, such as reusable utensils made from discarded oyster shells and furniture crafted from old tires, demonstrating the potential for waste to be repurposed creatively [16].