China-France Urban Renewal Exhibition Promotes Sustainable Development

On March 15, the “China-France Urban Renewal Exhibition: Culture, Green, Architecture” opened in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi Province. Co-hosted by Tsinghua University and Tianjin University, the exhibition brought together outstanding designers from both countries to explore urban renewal strategies that integrate cultural preservation with low-carbon development. Through on-site visits and academic exchanges, the exhibition highlighted innovative practices and achievements in this field.

As global economic activities become increasingly virtual, once-thriving industrial spaces are now relics of the past. Revitalizing these sites requires innovative solutions that maximize existing resources. How can we create vibrant urban environments, enhance community life, and balance work and leisure? This exhibition provided a platform for renowned designers to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange ideas, contributing insights to promote sustainable urban renewal.

Jingdezhen, the first stop of the exhibition, is a prime example of integrating millennia-old ceramic culture with modern low-carbon transformation. The city, once in decline, has reclaimed its cultural prominence by merging traditional craftsmanship with innovative design concepts. By repurposing discarded kiln bricks and factory materials, architects demonstrated the profound significance of “Culture, Green, Architecture” in the context of urban renewal. The exhibition in Jingdezhen showcased innovative approaches to revitalizing historic towns, offering valuable experiences and inspiration for global urban development.

Zhang Jie, a renowned national engineering survey and design master and professor at Tsinghua University, delivered the keynote speech, while Zhang Chunyan, Secretary of the Party Committee of the School of Architecture at Tianjin University, hosted the opening ceremony.

Tianjin University has long been dedicated to preserving and renewing architectural heritage. In collaboration with the French Embassy in China, the university established the “China-France Center for Cultural Heritage and Urban Studies” to promote cooperation between China and France in heritage protection and urban development.

By: Qin Mian