Core Insights - The Mediterranean region is facing a significant environmental crisis, highlighted by the discovery of 167 pieces of waste, primarily plastic, in the Calypso Deep, indicating a broader global ocean health crisis [1] - The third United Nations Ocean Conference held in Nice, France, gathered over 15,000 representatives from more than 170 countries, resulting in the release of the "Nice Ocean Action Plan" aimed at urgent global cooperation for ocean protection [1][4] Ocean Health Status - The "Starfish Barometer," the first annual global ocean health assessment report, warns of alarming changes: global sea levels have risen approximately 23 centimeters since 1901, with projections for 2024 to reach new highs [2] - Ocean heat content is at its highest since 1960, with sea surface temperatures rising by 0.25 degrees Celsius, exacerbating extreme weather and accelerating ocean acidification [2] - Human activities are linked to these changes, with global fossil fuel CO2 emissions projected to reach 3.74 billion tons in 2024, and over one-third of fishery resources are overfished, increasing by about 1% annually [2] Conference Outcomes - The "Nice Ocean Action Plan" consists of a political declaration and voluntary commitments from countries, calling for specific measures to protect oceans, including expanding marine protected areas and addressing marine pollution [6] - The conference also advanced the process of protecting marine biodiversity, with 19 countries approving a UN agreement aimed at enhancing the conservation of marine biodiversity in international waters [6] China's Participation - China's extensive participation in the conference was recognized, showcasing a multi-sectoral approach to global ocean governance, including sustainable fishing practices and the development of marine ranching [8] - The introduction of the COAST toolkit, developed by Chinese research institutions, aims to provide systematic solutions for coastal cities facing climate change challenges, emphasizing data sharing and international collaboration [9][10] Global Research Initiatives - Several global ocean research initiatives were launched, including the "Neptune Mission" for deep-sea exploration and the establishment of the "Space4Ocean Alliance" to integrate space technology with ocean monitoring [9] - Chinese research institutions played a significant role in these initiatives, contributing to global data sharing and capacity building in ocean governance [9]

Core Viewpoint - The United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, highlighted China's achievements in marine ecological protection and sustainable development, receiving high praise from global experts and officials [1][2]. Group 1: China's Initiatives and Achievements - China has established marine protected areas and wetland management zones, invested in ecological restoration, and implemented effective patrols to enhance marine biodiversity [2]. - The "Blue Partnership" initiative showcases China's commitment to sharing knowledge and technology with the international community, aiming to assist countries in capacity building for marine protection [1][3]. - The COAST toolkit, developed by China's First Institute of Oceanography, integrates marine big data, advanced numerical models, and AI technology to provide visual products and services for marine disaster management, ecological health, and fisheries resources [2]. Group 2: International Collaboration and Recognition - Experts from various countries, including Egypt and the United Nations, acknowledged the COAST toolkit's potential to help global southern nations better understand and assess their marine resources [3][4]. - China's efforts in promoting environmentally friendly regulations for deep-sea mining were commended, emphasizing its role in multilateralism and adherence to international marine rules [4]. - The International Council for Science's marine expert group highlighted China's leadership in projects under the "UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development" (2021-2030), reinforcing its commitment to knowledge sharing and exploration [4].