Qingdao forum explores blue carbon as key climate solution

The 2026 Forum on Blue Carbon and Sustainable Development highlighted the growing importance of blue carbon in addressing climate change and supporting sustainable ocean management.

The forum was held in Qingdao, East China's Shandong province, on June 6 and 7 and hosted by the Ocean University of China. It brought together about 130 participants, including international experts, scholars, and students from more than 10 countries, as well as domestic academics, faculty, and students.

Participants discussed three key themes: blue carbon and climate change, ocean governance and a healthy ocean under the carbon neutrality framework, and marine sustainable development and blue finance.

Justin Ahanhanzo, a retired IOC-UNESCO International Programme Specialist, praised China's achievements in sustainable development and highlighted the value of university-driven cooperation. He said that local partnerships through higher education can effectively advance regional sustainability goals.

Yang Haiyong, deputy director of the office of the financial committee of the CPC Shandong Provincial Committee, said that blue carbon is a critical factor for achieving carbon neutrality. With its rich marine resources, Shandong is aiming to integrate blue and green finance, turning marine assets into economic drivers.

Lu Guangzhi, deputy Party secretary of the Ocean University of China, reaffirmed the university's commitment to advancing the national carbon strategy through marine science and education. He called for deeper international collaboration in blue carbon research.