Fuzhou, China - On 2 June 2023, the North-West Pacific Action Plan (NOWPAP) of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) actively participated in the esteemed "Marine Economy and 'Dual Carbon' Strategy" Forum and the First Council Meeting of the 21st-Century Maritime Cooperation Committee, held in collaboration with the Fuzhou Municipal Government of China.
This significant gathering brought together over 150 individuals from government bodies, academia, and the private sector, representing countries such as Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Kiribati, Nepal, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Trinidad and Tobago. The participants converged to engage in crucial discussions regarding the marine economy, climate change, and sustainable development.
The First Council Meeting of the 21st-Century Maritime Cooperation Committee served as an effective platform for reviewing the remarkable progress achieved in partnership development related to the marine economy and maritime cooperation. They also addressed crucial topics such as capacity building for the conservation of marine ecosystems, disaster reduction, marine litter management, and climate change mitigation.
Comprised of three pivotal sessions—the opening session, keynote speech session, and panel discussion—the Forum placed a strong emphasis on national strategies and local initiatives necessary to ensure the sustainable utilization of marine resources, as well as the successful attainment of sustainable development goals.
The event facilitated the sharing of valuable insights on a range of topics, including integrated coastal and marine management, marine ecosystem conservation, the utilization of renewable energy sources, wetland protection, and the promotion of responsible marine tourism. A notable highlight was the expertly moderated panel discussion on the intersection of the marine economy and climate change, led by Ning Liu, Programme Officer of NOWPAP. Panellists from China, Bangladesh, the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, and Trinidad and Tobago delved into best practices and innovative initiatives encompassing carbon sinks, carbon transactions, green ports, and sustainable aquaculture. The session also shed light on the severe negative impacts resulting from human activities on marine environments.
Since its establishment in 2017 by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Fuzhou Municipal Government, and the United Cities and Local Governments Asia-Pacific, the 21st-Century Maritime Cooperation Committee has played a pivotal role in fostering information exchange, capacity building, and partnership development for various marine-related initiatives. These encompass marine economy, marine conservation, waterway security, disaster prevention and reduction, aquaculture, renewable energy, marine tourism, and marine environmental protection at the city level throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The Committee's outstanding efforts have garnered attention and participation from city governments beyond the region, reinforcing its significance on a global scale.
With local governments at the forefront of environmental protection and development efforts, the support and technical expertise provided by international organizations like UNEP is becoming increasingly vital. The collaborative efforts between UNEP and cities and local governments serve as a powerful catalyst in safeguarding marine ecosystems and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.
