Shenzhen has become the third Chinese city—after Beijing and Shanghai—to host the headquarters of an intergovernmental organization. The International Mangrove Center, based in Shenzhen, continues to expand its global influence, with Zimbabwe and Sudan recently joining as prospective members. The total number of intended members has now reached 20.
The recent policy document, Several Measures to Support Shenzhen in Further Comprehensively Deepening Reforms in the Field of Natural Resources, highlights efforts to establish and utilize the International Mangrove Center. The center aims to serve as a key platform for promoting ecological civilization, showcasing China’s achievements in environmental protection, advancing global mangrove conservation, and supporting national diplomatic initiatives.
At a press conference on September 4, Bao Daming, Secretary-General of the Interim Secretariat of the International Mangrove Center, outlined five key areas of work:
First, enhancing China's image as a great nation. As the only intergovernmental organization focused on mangroves under the Ramsar Convention, the center supports its members in protecting and restoring mangrove ecosystems, conserving biodiversity, addressing climate change, and meeting the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Second, building an international platform. With its growing global influence, the center now has 20 prospective members, including recent additions Zimbabwe and Sudan. It will engage research institutions, international organizations, local communities, and the private sector to foster collaborative conservation and sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems.
Third, sharing China's experiences. China has implemented significant measures such as the Wetland Protection Law and the Mangrove Protection and Restoration Action Plan (2020–2025). Shenzhen, a pioneer in sustainable development, has successfully balanced urban growth with ecological preservation, notably in joint wetland conservation efforts with Hong Kong.
Fourth, empowering Shenzhen's development. As the host city, Shenzhen provides comprehensive support in funding, personnel, and international exchanges. The center will promote Shenzhen's model of blue carbon trading and help position the city as a global leader in ecological protection.
Lastly, strengthening the construction of the center. With the founding agreement soon to take effect and the first council meeting scheduled in Shenzhen, the center will foster international consensus, innovate financing mechanisms, and share knowledge and technology worldwide.
Bao said the International Mangrove Center looks forward to deepening cooperation with Shenzhen to contribute "Shenzhen solutions" and "Chinese wisdom" to global mangrove and wetland conservation.
Reporter: Cai Minling
Photo: Shenzhen Fabu
Editor: Wei Shen, James Campion, Shen He
