Core Points - The third United Nations Ocean Conference opened on June 9 in Nice, France, marking the largest and highest-level ocean conference in recent years [2][3] - The BBNJ agreement, which aims to protect marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, has seen a significant increase in the number of ratifying countries, reaching 50 [1][6][7] - The conference produced the "Nice Ocean Action Plan," including a political declaration and over 800 voluntary commitments from various stakeholders [4] Group 1: BBNJ Agreement - The BBNJ agreement fills a governance gap by providing a framework for establishing marine protected areas in international waters, which currently account for less than 2% of the ocean [1][7] - As of the conference, 31 countries had ratified the agreement, with an additional 19 countries ratifying it during the conference, leaving only 10 more needed for it to come into effect [6][7][8] - The French President's special envoy projected that by September, there would be 70 ratifications, allowing for the first conference of parties to be held by 2028 [8] Group 2: Conference Participation and Outcomes - The conference attracted 15,000 representatives, including 55 heads of state and government, indicating a heightened global focus on ocean protection [3][4] - The "Nice Ocean Action Plan" aims to unify countries in urgent action for ocean protection, although it lacks binding commitments [4] - The conference also highlighted the need for precaution in deep-sea mining, with 37 countries advocating for a pause or ban on such activities due to environmental concerns [9][10]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the severe decline of fishery resources in Zhoushan, China, primarily due to overfishing and its impact on local fishermen's livelihoods [1][3][4]. Group 1: Fishery Resource Decline - Zhoushan is known as China's largest seafood production and processing base, but overfishing since the 1970s has led to a significant reduction in key fish species [1][3]. - The average annual decline of marine fishery resources in China decreased from 13% (2013-2017) to 4% (2018-2022), yet the overall trend remains negative due to various factors including climate change and pollution [3][4]. - Local fishermen report a continuous decrease in catch efficiency, with about 10% of "cage boats" unable to sustain operations in recent years [1][4]. Group 2: Causes of Overfishing - Overfishing is attributed to excessive fishing intensity, characterized by an increase in the number of fishing vessels and advancements in fishing technology [3][4][5]. - The fishing fleet has evolved from wooden sailboats to larger, more efficient steel vessels, leading to higher catch rates and ecological damage [3][4]. - The phenomenon of "ghost fishing gear" contributes to ongoing resource depletion, with an estimated 64,000 tons of fishing gear abandoned in oceans annually [12]. Group 3: Economic Impact on Fishermen - Fishermen face declining fish prices and demand, exacerbated by events such as the Fukushima nuclear wastewater incident, which has deterred consumers from purchasing seafood [4][10]. - The cost of labor has nearly doubled over the past five years, while revenues have decreased, leading to unsustainable operations for many fishermen [5][10]. - Fishermen like Shen Ke are forced to adapt by engaging in distant water fishing, but overall, the traditional fishing industry is in crisis [5][10]. Group 4: Policy and Management Challenges - The lack of legal recognition for fishermen complicates the management of fishing resources, as anyone can fish without restrictions [7][8]. - The privatization of fishing rights has led to resource concentration among a few individuals, increasing competition and fishing intensity [8][9]. - Sustainable management practices, such as fishing quotas and community-based resource management, are suggested as potential solutions to the crisis [9][14]. Group 5: Marine Conservation Efforts - Local organizations are working to raise public awareness about marine conservation, with significant increases in volunteer participation in environmental activities [13][14]. - Policies have been implemented to promote marine ecological restoration, including the establishment of marine protected areas and investment in artificial reefs [14][15]. - The article emphasizes the need for long-term commitment to marine protection and the integration of various management strategies to achieve sustainable development [15].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the severe decline of fishery resources in Zhoushan, China's largest fishing ground, primarily due to overfishing and unsustainable practices, leading to economic difficulties for local fishermen [1][2][5]. Group 1: Fishery Resource Decline - Zhoushan is recognized as China's largest seafood production and processing base, but overfishing since the 1970s has led to a significant decrease in key fish species [1]. - The average annual decline of marine fishery resources in China decreased from 13% (2013-2017) to 4% (2018-2022), yet the overall trend remains negative due to various factors including climate change and pollution [1][2]. - Local fishermen report a continuous drop in catch efficiency, with about 10% of "cage boats" unable to sustain operations in recent years [1][2]. Group 2: Causes of Overfishing - Experts attribute the decline in fishery resources to excessive fishing intensity, characterized by an increase in the number of fishing vessels and advancements in fishing technology [2][5]. - The transition from traditional wooden boats to larger, more efficient steel vessels has led to higher catch rates, exacerbating the depletion of fish stocks [2][5]. - The lack of legal recognition for fishermen as stakeholders in resource management contributes to the overfishing problem, as anyone can fish without restrictions [5][6]. Group 3: Economic Impact on Fishermen - Fishermen like Shen Ke express that the current situation is dire, with fish prices plummeting and operational costs rising, leading to unsustainable practices [3][4][8]. - The cost of labor has nearly doubled in the past five years, while fish prices have significantly decreased, resulting in financial losses for many fishermen [3][4]. - Fishermen are increasingly resorting to distant ocean fishing to maintain their livelihoods, but the overall economic viability remains precarious [4][8]. Group 4: Environmental Concerns - The nearshore marine ecosystem in Zhoushan is fragile, with high levels of inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus, and a low water quality compliance rate of 28.3% [9]. - Abandoned fishing gear, termed "ghost gear," poses a significant threat to marine life and contributes to plastic pollution in the ocean [9][10]. - The article highlights the need for improved public awareness and community involvement in marine conservation efforts to address these environmental challenges [10][11]. Group 5: Policy and Management Recommendations - Experts suggest that establishing a fishing quota system and recognizing fishermen as legal entities could help manage fishing intensity and promote sustainable practices [5][7]. - The implementation of modern fishing gear and techniques, along with community engagement in marine protection, is essential for the long-term recovery of fishery resources [11][12]. - Recent initiatives in Zhoushan, such as the establishment of marine protected areas and investment in ecological restoration, are steps towards addressing the ongoing crisis [11][12].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the urgent need for ocean conservation in response to environmental challenges such as plastic pollution and rising sea temperatures, highlighting the initiative "Hai Hao You Ni · Yi Qi Mei" launched by Guotai Real Estate to promote environmental protection [1][2]. Group 1: Initiative Overview - Guotai Real Estate, through its "Hai Hao You Ni" public welfare brand, has launched the "Hai Hao You Ni · Yi Qi Mei" initiative in collaboration with various organizations to address ocean ecological protection [2][13]. - The initiative features an innovative model that combines online and offline activities, encouraging community engagement in environmental practices [4][10]. Group 2: Online Engagement - The "Blue Ocean Guardian" points activity allows participants to engage in online environmental knowledge learning and low-carbon lifestyle tracking, fostering a sense of community involvement [4][5]. - Participants can earn "low-carbon points" through daily actions, quizzes, and interactive games, which can be redeemed for rewards [5][8]. Group 3: Offline Activities - Offline events will take place in two communities, featuring interactive tasks that participants can complete to earn "Guardian Stamps," which can lead to certifications and rewards [10][15]. - The initiative aims to create an immersive experience that enhances public awareness and participation in environmental conservation [10][15]. Group 4: Social Responsibility - This initiative represents Guotai Real Estate's commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to making low-carbon living accessible and engaging for everyone [15].

Core Points - The third United Nations Ocean Conference commenced on June 9 in Nice, France, focusing on promoting ocean protection and the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 [1][3] - A key objective of the conference is to push for the ratification of the agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, which requires approval from 60 countries to become binding international law [3][5] - The conference highlights the urgent need for funding to support Sustainable Development Goal 14, which is currently one of the least funded goals [5][7] Group 1 - The conference agenda includes discussions on the challenges facing ocean protection, emphasizing the relationship between climate action, ocean health, and biodiversity loss [3][4] - French President Macron and other leaders stressed the importance of basing discussions on scientific evidence rather than subjective opinions, expressing strong support for marine research [3][4] - The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has faced significant cuts under the previous administration, raising concerns about the impact on marine research and multilateral cooperation [4] Group 2 - The conference includes a Blue Economy and Finance Forum aimed at addressing financing for ocean protection, with discussions on raising funds through financial institutions, private investments, and blue bonds [7][8] - The final declaration, known as the "Nice Ocean Action Plan," will address key issues such as funding, fishing practices, and deep-sea exploration [8] - The international community is urged to unite in addressing these challenges to restore the vibrant and diverse oceans of the past, as highlighted by UN Secretary-General Guterres [8]

Core Viewpoint - The UK government proposed to ban bottom trawling in more vulnerable marine protected areas to safeguard rare marine animals and their fragile seabeds from indiscriminate and potentially irreversible damage [1] Group 1 - The proposal aims to enhance the protection of marine ecosystems by restricting harmful fishing practices [1] - The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need to preserve biodiversity in marine environments [1] - The ban is part of broader efforts to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable fishing practices [1]

Core Points - The article highlights the ongoing coral transplantation activities at the Hainan Boundary Island, emphasizing the importance of marine conservation and community involvement in these efforts [1][2][4]. Group 1: Coral Transplantation Activities - The Boundary Island tourism area has been engaged in coral transplantation and conservation since 2004, collaborating closely with research institutions to innovate conservation methods [2]. - The coral coverage rate on the island has been steadily increasing, creating extensive coral reefs that serve as habitats for various marine life [2]. - Participants, such as returning divers, play a crucial role in the ongoing evaluation and success of the coral transplantation projects [2]. Group 2: Community Involvement - Participants like Tian Sihui and her daughter actively engage in planting coral seedlings, which fosters a deeper understanding of the importance of ocean protection [4]. - The emotional connection and educational aspect of witnessing the growth of transplanted corals are highlighted as significant benefits for participants [4].

Group 1 - The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) will be held from June 9 to 13, 2025, in Nice, France, focusing on "Accelerating Action, Mobilizing All Efforts to Protect and Sustainably Use the Ocean" [1] - The conference aims to promote urgent actions for ocean resource and ecosystem protection and explore innovative pathways to support Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) [1][6] - French President Macron emphasized the importance of ocean protection for carbon sinks, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of those dependent on the ocean, highlighting the need to reshape the blue economy [1] Group 2 - The "We Are Ocean" series includes key events such as the Ocean Science Conference and the Blue Economy and Finance Forum, which will address sustainable management and economic opportunities related to the ocean [3][4] - According to the OECD, the economic value of the ocean is projected to exceed $3 trillion by 2030, making it comparable to the world's fifth-largest economy, with over 150 million jobs relying on sustainable ocean-related activities [3][4] - International cooperation is essential to prevent resource depletion, mitigate ocean acidification, protect ecosystems, and reduce overfishing and pollution [3] Group 3 - The Blue Economy and Finance Forum will serve as a platform for dialogue among think tanks, policymakers, and industry leaders to promote sustainable investment practices and marine technology innovation [4][5] - A Business Ocean Alliance will be established to encourage voluntary commitments from companies to protect the ocean, alongside a philanthropic and investor alliance to provide funding for ocean conservation [5] Group 4 - UNOC3 will prioritize discussions on the effectiveness of the BBNJ agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, mobilizing funding for SDG 14, and enhancing marine scientific knowledge dissemination [6][7] - The conference agenda includes ten plenary sessions and discussions on reducing marine pollution, promoting sustainable fisheries management, and restoring marine and coastal ecosystems [7] - The expected outcome is the "Nice Ocean Action Plan," a politically endorsed declaration that will guide future ocean governance and investment [7]