[Video/Nantong International Communication Center]

Over 120 years ago, Zhang Jian (1853-1926) pioneered a modern economic development model that was ahead of its time. From the Dasheng Cotton Mills to the Guangsheng Oil Factory, and then to the Dalong Soap Factory and Dachang Paper Mill, he implemented an innovative system where the waste from one factory served as raw material for downstream factories. This early adoption of the circular economy model and green development positioned Nantong as the first modern city in China.