On October 30, the first Blue Wave Conference, one of the flagship forums of the 2025 China Marine Economy Expo (CMEE), was successfully held at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center.

In alignment with the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (“Ocean Decade”), the conference convened over 100 young scientists and entrepreneurs from around 20 countries to exchange ideas on empowering youth in ocean science and action, advancing marine innovation, enhancing ecological conservation, and promoting sustainable growth of the blue economy.

The conference was co-hosted by China Ocean Mineral Resources R&D Association (COMRA), the Advanced Institute for Ocean Research (AIOR) at the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), the Shenzhen Global Ocean Center City Construction Promotion Association, the Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA), the Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University (SZIGOU), and the Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP) Programme.

Focusing on fostering a “science–policy–action” collaboration framework, it offered an international platform for young marine professionals to engage in thematic discussions, Model UN simulations, and creative project showcases, promoting dialogue and practical cooperation for sustainable ocean futures.

Jian LIN, Director and Chair Professor of AIOR at SUSTech and head of Shenzhen Ocean University Preparatory Office, called on young people worldwide to work together to address global ocean challenges. He noted that Shenzhen is accelerating the development of a new ocean landmark that integrates Shenzhen Ocean University, Deep-sea Research Center, and the Shenzhen Ocean Museum, aiming to build a globally influential hub for ocean science and innovation.

A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of the 2025 Blue Wave Shenzhen Initiative, which outlines ten action priorities to strengthen youth engagement in ocean affairs. The initiative proposes the establishment of a Global Ocean Youth Partnership Network and a Global Ocean Youth Council, along with the launch of a new Youth Blue Action Index—aimed at fostering an open, inclusive, and efficient global ocean partnership ecosystem.

During the conference, SUSTech’s AIOR signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the China Merchants Marine Equipment Research Institute to jointly establish the Collaborative Innovation Institute of Deep-Sea Technology and Engineering. The institute will focus on deep-sea technology innovation, technology transfer, and talent cultivation, contributing to China’s maritime development strategy and the growth of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

Additionally, AIOR signed a letter of intent with PEMSEA to pursue joint research, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building initiatives to support sustainable ocean and coastal development.