Xiamen makes a splash by hosting World Ocean Week

"Ocean plus" activities are one of the highlights of the event. In the field of ocean plus eco-civilization, for example, it is organizing the "ocean super year－2021 global progress in ocean health" conference for the first time.

Thomson, Chen Danhong, deputy director of the Department of International Cooperation of the Ministry of Natural Resources, and Kristian Teleki, director of the Friends of Ocean Action, are to deliver keynote speeches at this.

The conference lists the progress and discussions on oceans being made at this year's global gatherings and explores how to promote and accelerate action.

A blue carbon international summit is also being held at the event for the first time. Blue carbon refers to the processes and mechanisms that use marine activities and organisms to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in oceans. It now serves as a key strategy to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

More than 10 experts are to share their experiences in managing the blue carbon ecosystem in coastal zones, and work with representatives from home and abroad to explore its potential.

As for cultural carnivals, the event will host a national map knowledge competition to enhance patriotism and national pride among the public. Some 30 players will compete in semifinals and finals, which will be broadcast through the Xiamen Star satellite TV channel.

Some activities are being held online during this year's ocean week.

The 11th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Blue Economy Forum, for example, will explore blue economy practices based on ecological products via video link.