Scientists at the One Ocean Science Congress in Nice, France, issued a stark warning this week, urging United Nations members to prioritize ocean conservation through science-driven policies. The 10-point roadmap released during the congress highlights the critical role of international cooperation in addressing marine pollution, overfishing, and climate-related threats to biodiversity.
Asia’s vast coastlines and marine ecosystems—from the South China Sea to Southeast Asia’s coral reefs—were emphasized as key areas requiring immediate attention. Researchers stressed that regional collaboration, particularly among nations bordering the Pacific and Indian Oceans, could set a precedent for sustainable practices benefiting both economies and ecosystems.
Dr. Li Wei, a marine biologist from the Chinese mainland, noted, 'Asia’s oceans are not just a resource but a lifeline for millions. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern science can unlock solutions.' The recommendations also call for expanded funding for blue-tech innovation, a potential boon for investors eyeing sustainable aquaculture and renewable energy projects.
For the Asian diaspora and travelers, the congress underscored the cultural and economic stakes of healthy oceans, linking coastal tourism and food security to global policy shifts. Academics praised the focus on data-sharing platforms to track marine health, a tool that could empower communities worldwide.
As UN delegates prepare for upcoming climate talks, the Nice congress serves as a rallying cry: protecting oceans is inseparable from securing humanity’s future.
