The coastal ecosystems surrounding China’s Hainan Island continue to demonstrate remarkable environmental resilience, according to a comprehensive scientific report released by the South China Sea Bureau of the Ministry of Natural Resources. The findings reveal consistently high seawater quality metrics that rank among the nation’s best, coupled with well-preserved marine biodiversity across the region’s diverse habitats.
The detailed assessment, titled ‘Report on Marine Ecological Conservation and Sustainable Development of the Hainan Free Trade Port,’ was unveiled during the 6th Symposium on Global Maritime Cooperation and Ocean Governance in Sanya. This gathering attracted over 300 distinguished participants from more than 30 countries and regions, including prominent experts, scholars, government officials, diplomats, and international organization representatives.
Scientific monitoring conducted between 2020 and 2024 provided the foundational data for the report, which systematically analyzed water quality parameters, marine sediment composition, and biodiversity indicators. Researchers particularly focused on seven distinct marine ecosystem types, examining their conditions within key distribution areas to obtain a holistic understanding of the region’s ecological status.
The report’s release coincides with significant regional developments, as the Hainan Free Trade Port prepares to implement island-wide special customs operations commencing December 18. This economic initiative appears to be progressing alongside, rather than at the expense of, environmental conservation efforts.
Symposium attendees are engaged in intensive dialogues addressing critical ocean governance challenges, including the establishment of a stable and sustainable global management framework, resolution mechanisms for maritime disputes, and promotion of peaceful cooperation in the South China Sea region. The two-day conference serves as an international platform for sharing expertise and developing collaborative strategies for ocean stewardship.