With the rapid growth of the production of garbage and the decreasing amount of landfills, China has accelerated the implementation of the waste classification system. On July 1, 2019, Shanghai, China as the first pilot city, implemented a mandatory garbage sorting plan.

The plan was also carried out in Beijing and Shenzhen over the next year. Many Chinese cities have begun to promote knowledge of garbage classification and encourage citizens to take actions.

At present, the waste sorting plan majorly relies on legal constraints. If there is no guidance or supervision, most people may not be able to sort garbage consciously and accurately by themselves.

In order for the long-term implementation of waste sorting, China will need to strengthen the cultivation of environmental awareness and waste sorting education.

"Developing empathy and environmental values in early childhood can help children take responsibility and to proceed to environmentally friendly action as they grow up."