Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of marine ecological restoration in Guangdong, highlighting the successful integration of ecological protection with economic development, particularly through the restoration of mangroves and the protection of marine biodiversity [1][7][10]. Group 1: Marine Ecological Restoration - Guangdong has the largest area of mangroves in China, with a total area of 1.14 million hectares, which is the highest in the country [5][44]. - The province has implemented comprehensive measures for ecological restoration, including the establishment of demonstration zones for mangrove restoration, which has led to a significant increase in mangrove areas [32][44]. - The restoration efforts have resulted in the recovery of mangrove areas to approximately 1.1 million hectares, up from just over 1,000 hectares a decade ago [30][31]. Group 2: Biodiversity Protection - The article highlights the presence of the Chinese white dolphin, a key indicator species for marine ecosystems, with the population in the Leizhou Bay area showing stable growth [50][54]. - Guangdong has established six nature reserves for the Chinese white dolphin, making it the region with the highest concentration of this species in China [55][56]. - The province has seen a significant increase in wintering waterbirds, with approximately 129,000 birds recorded in 2025, representing a year-on-year growth of over 15% [67][115]. Group 3: Economic Development through Ecological Integration - The article discusses the innovative coupling of mangrove protection with aquaculture, leading to improved economic benefits from sustainable practices [88][92]. - The successful carbon trading of mangrove carbon credits has generated over 4 million yuan, setting records for both volume and value in China [100][101]. - The tourism sector in areas like Nansha has benefited from ecological restoration, with visitor numbers reaching nearly 60 million in 2024, a 105% increase year-on-year, showcasing the economic potential of "blue tourism" [106][107].