Aramco, one of the world’s leading energy and chemicals companies, has revealed the first three renovated community basketball courts in Beijing, China, marking a significant step in the company’s “Shoot for the Future” project. The new courts, designed to revitalise community basketball in China, are built with advanced materials, including flooring made partly from recycled plastic, and aim to showcase the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The unveiling took place on Tuesday at the Dongdan basketball community, with the courts offering a blend of eco-friendly design and high-tech materials. The project, which forms part of Aramco’s broader strategy to empower communities through sports, also highlights the company’s dedication to advancing the circular carbon economy—a key pillar of its global sustainability efforts.
Nader Al-Arfaj, Managing Director of Aramco Asia in China, commented on the significance of the project, saying: “These courts are not just about providing a space for basketball; they embody how we can use innovation and advanced materials to shape a better future. Through this project, we aim to empower communities and showcase the potential of sustainable materials in modern infrastructure.”
The renovated courts feature a professional-standard flooring system, developed in collaboration with Aramco’s chemical arm, SABIC, and Enlio, the exclusive supplier for 3×3 basketball courts for the Tokyo and Paris Olympic Games. The new flooring is designed with mesh-like holes that allow for quicker drainage of rainwater, offering better performance and durability than previous court surfaces. This makes the courts more comfortable and safer for players, as the improved drainage prevents water from accumulating after rainfall.
Xiaochuan Zhai, a top Chinese basketball player, noted the improvements in the court’s design, particularly the drainage system, which he said “makes it better than the previous kind of floors.” Hansen Yang, a promising young player, also praised the court’s new features, highlighting its bright colours and excellent rebound and anti-slip qualities, which enhance the overall playing experience.
The project’s significance extends beyond the realm of sports, serving as a model of social responsibility, circular economy, and environmental sustainability. According to Jian Jiang, General Manager of CBA Company, the Chinese Basketball Association’s operational arm, the “Shoot for the Future” project carries a deep meaning, blending modern technological innovations with social responsibility. “This project has inspired many fans,” he added.
Aramco, in partnership with its collaborators, plans to expand the project to other regions in China, continuing its commitment to fostering green development through sports. Al-Arfaj confirmed the company’s intent to build more courts across the country, furthering the project’s reach and impact on local communities.
Looking ahead, Aramco’s collaboration with SABIC and Enlio represents a commitment to sustainability that extends beyond just the sports community, helping to drive forward the company’s mission of using innovation and recycling technologies to support a greener future. “We hope these courts will bring lasting enjoyment to the community and stand as a testament to our shared efforts towards a more sustainable world,” Al-Arfaj concluded.