The "tree of symbiosis" is lit up on site. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for ftz.xm.gov.cn]
The Launch Ceremony of XMFTZ Global Innovation Center for Sustainable Development and the UN One Plant Networks Sustainable Business Innovation Lab was held on March 26.
The event brought together industry authorities, international organizations, innovation center residents, alliance members, and representatives of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) service ecosystem enterprises. It aimed to implement the new development philosophy, advance the Xiamen ESG Action Plan (2025-27), and build an international platform to drive innovation and collaboration in sustainable development.
The event's theme is "For Future: From Global Hub to Common Home". [Photo by Lin Yuyang for ftz.xm.gov.cn]
The Xiamen Municipal Development and Reform Commission previewed the "Xiamen ESG plus Green Development Vitality Index" — a dynamic assessment tool measuring regional green growth. The Administration of Xiamen Free Trade Zone also released its first batch of scenario opportunity lists, featuring 25 key applications across 11 core sectors such as green and low-carbon and digital intelligence.
The Sustainable Service Alliance, International ESG Service Hub, and ESG Talent Development Partner were also launched, while a Memorandum of Cooperation with the British Standards Institution (BSI) and Sustainable Development Green Industry Fund was signed — bringing together data tools, pilot projects, and partnerships to support sustainable development.
An official introduces the XMFTZ Global Innovation Center for Sustainable Development. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for ftz.xm.gov.cn]
Since the release of the Xiamen ESG Action Plan (2025-27) in April 2025, the Xiamen FTZ has launched a number of initiatives to accelerate the construction of an ESG pilot zone.
These include building an ESG service hub and a full-chain innovation ecosystem, as well as issuing the nation's first "carbon-neutral ferry ticket" and the first model contract for lithium battery transportation. Meanwhile, the Xiangyu Comprehensive Bonded Zone has become the country's first zero-carbon comprehensive bonded zone.
Going forward, the center and lab will build a globally connected sustainability innovation network, offering a replicable "Xiamen Model" for green urban transformation worldwide.