Ningbo Library in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has recently made a splash in the international arena by being shortlisted for the 2025 IFLA Best Green Library Award, thanks to its innovative "Plas-Bottle Renaissance" recycling initiative.

Launched last October, the initiative encourages readers to put plastic bottles in designated recycling bins in exchange for stickers. These stickers can be accumulated and exchanged for eco-friendly cultural products, such as tote bags made from recycled polyester fibers, and reusable utensils. The program has gathered significant attention for its environmental impact and its ability to engage the public in sustainability efforts.

In addition to recycling, the project has also brought an artistic touch to discarded materials. Local artists upcycled over 400 collected plastic bottles to create an impressive Christmas tree. This creative approach not only highlights the potential of repurposing waste but also promotes the concept of circular sustainability to a broader audience.

Within five months, more than 3,600 plastic bottles were collected, contributing to the production of over 400 eco-friendly canvas bags. This process reduced carbon emissions by 152.5 kilograms compared to using virgin materials.

Ningbo Library's "Plas-Bottle Renaissance" program is a standout example of how libraries can drive social sustainability initiatives. It has earned a spot in the "Best Green Library Project" category of the IFLA Green Library Award, making it the only library from China to be shortlisted this year.

As libraries evolve to meet the diverse needs of their community, Ningbo Library continues to blend education, culture, and sustainability, shaping the future of library services.

"Libraries are always adapting to changing demands," said Xu Yibo, the library's director, "In many developed countries, libraries serve as complexes, encompassing not only books but also galleries, museums, archives, and research centers. In the future, Ningbo Library will continue to incorporate more cross-disciplinary activities to meet the diverse needs of the public."

Local artists stack discarded plastic bottles to create an eco-friendly Christmas tree. [Photo/Ningbo Library]