SHENZHEN, China, Nov. 11, 2024 — The International Mangrove Center (IMC) was officially established on November 6 in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, with the signing of an agreement by representatives from 18 contracting parties to the Ramsar Convention.

The establishment of the IMC, approved by the Ramsar Convention’s Standing Committee in September 2023, signifies a commitment to global environmental governance and a shared future for all. This center will serve as a platform for China to collaborate with Ramsar Convention member states, promoting global mangrove protection efforts. It aims to enhance the quality and stability of mangrove ecosystems, ultimately benefiting people worldwide.

Shenzhen boasts an impressive 36,100 hectares of wetlands, with 45% under protection, according to the Urban Planning and Natural Resources Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality. Mangroves cover 296 hectares, and 61% of the wetlands are designated as protected areas. Notably, the Futian Mangrove Wetland, recognized as a site of international importance, is uniquely situated in the heart of a city. Along with the Mai Po and Inner Deep Bay wetlands, also globally significant ecosystems, it plays a vital role in safeguarding migratory bird flyways. Since 2021, Shenzhen has established 15.48 hectares of new mangrove forests and restored 103.08 hectares of existing ones. The city has made significant strides in mangrove protection, wetland restoration, and biodiversity conservation.

Prioritizing mangrove conservation, China has implemented a wetland protection law, supporting regulations, a national park-centered nature reserve system, national wetland protection plans, and special action plans for mangrove restoration. China’s mangrove area now covers 30,300 hectares, an increase of approximately 8,300 hectares since the turn of the century, placing China among the few nations to see a net increase in mangrove coverage.

Source: Urban Planning and Natural Resources Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality

CONTACT: Contact person: Ms. Li, Tel: 86-10-63074558