Extending Chemical Reactions——A Report from China Bluestar to Build an Eco-symbiotic System
October 01 10:18:40, 2025
China National Bluestar (Group) Corporation has long been committed to sustainable development, especially in the chemical industry, where high resource consumption and environmental pollution have traditionally been major challenges. At the Fifth Plenary Session of the 16th Central Committee, the Party Central Committee emphasized the importance of building a resource-saving and environmentally friendly society. This vision became a key component in shaping the 11th Five-Year Plan. As one of China’s largest chemical enterprises, Bluestar has taken significant steps toward implementing a circular economy model, demonstrating that economic growth can go hand in hand with environmental protection.
The rapid economic growth of China has brought about two pressing issues: excessive resource consumption and severe environmental degradation. In 2003 alone, China emitted over 21 million tons of carbon dioxide, surpassing 33% of the global environmental capacity. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) emissions reached 13 million tons, exceeding the carrying capacity of seven major river basins. Additionally, smoke and dust emissions were at alarming levels, reaching 10.13 million tons and 9.41 million tons respectively. These figures highlight the urgent need for industries to adopt more sustainable practices.
Bluestar has embraced the concept of a circular economy by applying the principles of "reduce, reuse, recycle." The company has successfully implemented these strategies across its operations, turning waste into valuable resources. One of the most notable examples is the Wuxi Resin Plant, which once relied on a towering flare system to burn off excess gas. Through technological upgrades, the plant eliminated the flare entirely, using the waste gas as an energy source instead. This not only reduced emissions but also saved millions in fuel costs.
Beyond the Wuxi Plant, Bluestar has expanded its efforts to create an eco-symbiotic system. For instance, in Jiangxi Spark Industrial Park, companies within the park work together to recycle materials and energy. By-products from one process become raw materials for another, forming a closed-loop system. This approach has led to significant cost savings and environmental benefits. For example, Hubei Xinghua Chemical Co., Ltd. uses waste residue to produce high-boiling silicone oil, generating substantial economic returns.
Water treatment has also become a key area of focus for Bluestar. Recognizing the growing water crisis, the company has invested heavily in developing advanced water recycling technologies. Projects like the TISCO Water-Saving Project have helped reduce water usage significantly. In Jinan, Bluestar's efforts have transformed wastewater into a valuable resource, achieving a water reuse rate of over 90%.
Another innovative project is the propylene oxide wastewater concentration initiative, which addresses a global challenge. By employing multi-effect evaporation technology, Bluestar has turned difficult-to-treat wastewater into a source of calcium chloride, a valuable by-product. This not only solves environmental concerns but also creates new revenue streams.
Through continuous innovation and commitment to sustainability, Bluestar has positioned itself as a leader in the chemical industry. Its success demonstrates that eco-friendly practices are not only beneficial for the environment but also for business performance. As the company continues to grow, it remains focused on creating value through resource efficiency, pollution control, and industrial symbiosis.