In the heart of Shenzhen, Guangdong province, the International Mangrove Center has become a beacon of global collaboration in mangrove conservation. Established just a year ago, the center has successfully united 20 member countries in a shared mission to protect one of the planet’s most vital yet vulnerable ecosystems. Mangroves, which thrive along tropical and subtropical coastlines, serve as natural defenses against storms, purify seawater, sequester carbon, and support diverse marine life. China stands out as one of the few nations to achieve a net increase in mangrove coverage, thanks to extensive restoration initiatives and robust wetland protection legislation. The center’s efforts underscore the importance of international cooperation in safeguarding these critical habitats for future generations.