Core Insights - Qingdao aims for a marine GDP of 551.32 billion yuan in 2024, contributing 5.2% to the national and 30.6% to the provincial marine GDP, and accounting for 33% of the city's total GDP [1] - The city is focusing on technological innovation to drive its marine economy, targeting a growth rate of approximately 6.5% for marine GDP this year [2] - Qingdao is developing a modern marine industry system with a focus on high-end, intelligent, green, and clustered development [3] Marine Economy Development - The marine economy's contribution rate reached 45.9%, boosting the city's economic growth by 2.1 percentage points [1] - The marine primary, secondary, and tertiary industries contributed 2.9%, 43.5%, and 53.6% respectively to the marine GDP [1] - Qingdao has developed 34 marine AI models to enhance marine productivity and innovation [3] Technological Innovations - A groundbreaking wave energy conversion device developed by Tsinghua University won a special award at the Geneva International Invention Exhibition, addressing cost and reliability issues in wave energy generation [2] - The first cylindrical floating production storage and offloading unit in Asia, "Hurricane No. 1," was completed in Qingdao, capable of operating at sea for 15 years [2] - The city is also advancing in marine pharmaceuticals, with significant production of seaweed-based medical products and the development of marine drugs entering clinical trials [5] International Collaboration - Qingdao has established the "Marine Decade" International Cooperation Center, integrating into the UN's global initiatives for sustainable marine development [7] - The city hosted the first United Nations Marine Cities Conference, facilitating international dialogue on marine governance and technology [8] - Qingdao is actively participating in global marine governance, contributing to international frameworks and initiatives [8] Environmental Sustainability - The city is committed to marine ecological protection, launching initiatives to restore marine ecosystems and promote sustainable management [9][10] - Qingdao's ecological restoration efforts have been recognized nationally, enhancing both environmental quality and economic value [10] - Digital initiatives, such as virtual activities promoting marine conservation, are being implemented to raise awareness and engage the public [10]