Global Challenges, Local Solutions

Session ST 2.10: Achieving Sustainability through Connectivity for Resilient ASEAN Seas

Convenors

ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB)

Venue

TBC

Overview

In the ASEAN region, the conservation of marine areas is one of the big gaps seen in the previous global target for biodiversity. By the end of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets implementation period, only 4% (out of 10% target) of the region’s coastal and marine areas had been protected. This would pose a new challenge with the more ambitious targets pledged under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted at the 15th Conference of Parties to the UN Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD) in December 2022. A key target under the KM GBF, Target 3, is the conservation of at least 30% of the world’s lands and waters by 2030 (30×30). It could be a greater challenge for the ASEAN region because despite some areas of progress, the region was short in meeting the Aichi Biodiversity Targets. The KM GBF, with its 23 targets, is supposedly an effort to rectify the reasons for this failure and catch up on the lost progress. Among the actions highlighted in the KM GBF is the need for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to meet the targets. More specifically, to meet the ambitious “30×30” of Target 3 and improve the health of coastal and marine ecosystems in the region, the ASEAN Member States (AMS) should work together at establishing larger areas of conserved and protected waters.

The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) has taken some steps to advance the efforts of the ASEAN Member States in building strong collaboration and cross-boundary partnerships to protect larger areas of coastal and marine biodiversity in the ASEAN region. These include development and implementation of projects designed to address coastal and marine ecosystem threats and challenges by facilitating transformative changes in the collaborative management of marine protected areas (MPAs), MPA networks and associated marine corridors through integrated coastal management, marine spatial planning, and the ecosystem-based management of fisheries.

To amplify the commitment of the ASEAN Member States to the KM GBF and to showcase experiences in achieving sustained efforts in the ASEAN, the ACB proposes an interactive discussion on “Achieving Sustainability through Connectivity for Resilient ASEAN Seas”.  This session will serve as a platform for sharing the experiences of the ASEAN Member States in achieving sustainability, knowledge acquisition, sharing, and networking, highlighting ACB’s contributions in scientific and data management, ongoing coastal and marine conservation projects, and youth engagement initiatives aimed at ensuring sustainable and resilient seas within ASEAN.

Objectives:

  • Showcase ASEAN’s contributions to the 30 x 30 GBF target through successful case studies and initiatives.
  • Facilitate knowledge sharing among ASEAN member states and East Asian counterparts on effective marine conservation strategies.
  • Engage youth representatives in promoting sustainable marine practices and conservation efforts.

Program

Time AGENDA
Registration and AVP Presentations
10:00-10:05 Introduction
10:05-10: First Session

Proposed Topics:

Achieving Sustainability in the ASEAN Seas:

  • Towards Successful MPA and MPA network management in the ASEAN region (MPA / MPA networks as ecological support) Speaker 1: ASEAN Member State (Malaysia, TBC) Speaker 1: Marine Scientist (Thailand, TBC)
  • Lessons to share for Sustainable Fisheries in the ASEAN Region Speaker 1: ASEAN Member State (Indonesia, TBC) Speaker 2: Fisheries Biologist (TBC)
Q&A
Wrap-up and introduction to Second Session
Second Session

Connectivity for a Resilient ASEAN Seas

Proposed Topic: 

  • An Overview of the ASEAN ENMAPS Project 
  • The ENMAPS Approach: Understanding “Connectivity” in the ASEAN Marine Ecosystems
Q&A
Third Session

Youth for Sustainable ASEAN Seas

Proposed Topic: 

  • The role of youth organizations in coastal and marine conservation and fisheries management

Speaker: Singapore Youth Biodiversity Leader (tbc)  
Q&A
Panel Discussion
Wrap Up 
26 August, 2024

ST 2.13: International Symposium on Tsunami Warning and Storm Surge Prediction and Mitigation in the Asia-Pacific Region

Convener

National Marine Environmental Forecasting Center, MNR, China

 

Venue

TBC

Overview

TBC

 

Program 

Details to follow.

26 August, 2024

Session ST 2.12: 13th East HAB Symposium/ Exchange the latest status of red tide in East Asia and the discussion on the prevention and mitigation on harmful algal blooms-hypoxia at the background of “Ocean Decade”

Convenors

Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources

Venue

TBC

Overview

Details to follow

Program

Programme to follow

26 August, 2024

ST 2.9: Roundtable Discussion: Collaborative Approaches to tackling Ocean Plastic Pollution

Convener

Riverreycle Oy

 

Venue

TBC

 

Overview

Drawing from its extensive experience managing 10 river cleaning sites and 4 recycling facilities, RiverRecycle exemplifies how an innovative circular business model and robust multi-stakeholder collaboration can effectively address ocean plastic pollution. Transitioning to a circular economy is crucial for sustainability, necessitating a fundamental shift in strategy and operations, starting with a change in mindset.

 

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion at the East Sea Congress 2024, where experts from diverse sectors will explore approaches to addressing ocean plastic pollution through circular economy models and multi-stakeholder collaboration. This session will delve into the effectiveness, challenges, and benefits of circular business models, drawing on the extensive experience of RiverRecycle and its projects across five countries. 

 

Topics Covered:

  • Effectiveness of Circular Economy Models: Assessing the success and potential improvements of current circular economy initiatives in waste management. 
  • Multi-stakeholder Collaboration: Exploring the dynamics of collaboration among local communities, international organizations, financial institutions, governments, and private companies. 
  • Economic Viability and Scalability: Evaluating the long-term sustainability and scalability of the “river cleaning as a free service” model. 
  • Role of Governments and Policy: Identifying critical policies that support circular economy initiatives and balance regulation with incentivization. 
  • Community Engagement and Impact: Ensuring meaningful engagement and equitable benefit-sharing for local communities. 
  • Technological Innovations: Discussing promising technologies in waste management and their integration into existing systems. 
  • Corporate Responsibility and Accountability: Examining the role and responsibilities of global brands in reducing plastic pollution and supporting circular economy initiatives. 

 

This session promises to provide an open discussion platform for stakeholders from NGOs, charities, international organizations, financial institutions, governments, and the private waste management sector. Join us to be part of a transformative conversation on creating a sustainable future free from ocean plastic pollution.

 

Expected Outputs:

  • Participation from various sectors, including international organizations, financial institutions, public sector, and private sector representatives. 
  • Engagement of a diverse audience. 

Expected Outcomes:

  • Showcasing best practices and lessons learned from RiverRecycle’s operations, providing a comprehensive understanding of successful circular business models. 
  • Gaining insights into the perspectives and common interests of each stakeholder, fostering a collaborative approach to tackling ocean plastic pollution.

Program

Time AGENDA
14:00-14:05      Welcome and divide audience into groups 

Each group includes participants from various sectors
14:05-14:20 Presentation on RiverRecycle experiences in implementing circular projects to stop plastic waste leakages into the oceans by intervening river-borne plastic
14:20-14:40 Members ask clarifying questions (5 minutes) 

Debatable questions (sample list of questions are as below) 

Silence while members write down ideas and thoughts regarding situation presented (3 minutes) 

Each group shares ideas and suggestions or experience that relates to the situation (10 minutes)
14:40-14:45 Presenter offers feedback to suggestions and ideas from each member 

Wrap up and session

 

26 August, 2024

Session ST 2.8: Marine Plastics ODA: Innovative solutions and technologies on MP./ Project Meeting

Convenors

ODA – PEMSEA Resource Facility 

Venue

TBC

Overview

Details to follow

Program

Programme to follow

26 August, 2024

ST 2.8: Marine Plastics ODA: Innovative solutions and technologies on MP (Part 1)

Convenor

Marine Plastics ODA Project, PEMSEA Resource Facility

 

Venue

TBC

Overview

Plastic pollution is a severe global challenge, threatening the health of our planet and its diverse species. The IUCN Issue Brief (May 2024) reveals that annually, approximately 460 million tons of plastic are produced, with 20 million tons ending up in the oceans. This influx has devastating effects, including suffocation, starvation, and injury to marine life, leading to declines in populations and even the extinction of some species. Furthermore, plastic pollution has far-reaching economic impacts, affecting industries such as tourism, fishing, and shipping, while also contributing to the depletion of natural resources and biodiversity, both crucial for human well-being and economic prosperity.

The East Asia Seas region is particularly vulnerable to marine plastic pollution, with countries in the area being among the largest contributors to this global issue. A study by the Ocean Conservancy (Stemming the Tide, 2015) identified five Southeast Asian countries – China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam – as responsible for 60% of the plastic waste entering the ocean worldwide.

In response to this pressing issue, Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA) and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) of the Republic of Korea have launched an Official Development Assistance (ODA) project titled “Reducing Marine Plastic Litter in the East Asia Seas” in 2023, a six-year (2023-2028) initiative with total funding of US$9M from MOF.

The ODA project aims to improve local governance on marine plastic management, demonstrate best practices and innovative solutions for reducing marine plastics and marine plastic management, conduct beach monitoring on marine plastics and litter, and raise capacity and awareness and improve communication among stakeholders and public on the impact of marine plastics on the environment, human health and economy. This endeavor involves collaboration with Local Government Units (LGUs), including six LGUs in the Philippines (Bulan Municipality, Puerto Princesa City, Calbayog City, Daanbantayan Municipality, Dipolog City and Tandag City) and four municipalities in Timor-Leste (Dili, Atauro, Manatuto and Liquica).

Objectives of this session include:

  1. Report the outputs of the 2 years of implementation at local sites;
  2. Share experiences and lesson learned at the local sites; and
  3. Discuss way forward on the project implementation

Program

Time Agenda Note
OPENING
10:00-10:20 Welcome remarks

Congratulatory remarks

Congratulatory remarks

 Ms. Aimee T. Gonzales

Executive Director

PEMSEA

Hon. Mr. Song Myungdal

Vice Minister

Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, RO Korea

Mr. Celestino da Cunha Barreto

Director General for Fisheries

Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, Timor-Leste
PART 1. KEY NOTE PRESENTATION
10:20-10:40 Plastics pollution in the East Asian Seas Region: Status and Perspectives Dr. Maria Antonia Tanchuling

Dean

School of Engineering

University of the Philippines

Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
10:40-11:00 Group photo and coffee break
26 August, 2024

Session ST 2.6: Harmonizing Oceans: Transboundary Strategies for Climate Resilience in North-East Asia

Convenors

Korea Maritime Institute (KMI), Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Subregional Office for East and North-East Asia

Venue

TBC

Overview

The East Asia region, home to a diverse array of marine ecosystems and species, faces significant challenges exacerbated by climate change. These challenges include habitat loss, biological pollution from invasive alien species and harmful algal blooms, and threats to marine species from both human and natural stressors. Effective marine conservation efforts transcend national boundaries and require robust transboundary cooperation and multi-layered stakeholder engagement, from regional, national and local governments to MPA managers, research institutions, and local communities. This holistic approach resonates with the Congress theme “Blue Synergy for a Shared Future: One Sustainable and Resilient Ocean”.

The urgent needs for climate resilience are amplified through international and regional forums. Such calls include the resolution on regional cooperation to accelerate climate action on oceans in Asia and the Pacific for sustainable development[: ESCAP_RES_79_2_E (unescap.org)] adopted by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), contributing to, for example, the Sustainable Development Goal 14 (life under water) and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030. 

This session will highlight the role of) Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under CMSP (Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning) regime in North-East Asia in fostering regional resilience against climate impacts and promoting ecosystem conservation. The discussion outcomes are expected to contribute to the healthy ocean as identified in the Sustainable Development Strategy for the Seas of East Asia Implementation Plan 2023-2027.

In this session/side event, key topics will include:

  • Understanding Climate Change Impacts: Examining how climate change affects marine ecosystems in this region.
  • Applying CMSP Strategies: Sharing successful CMSP strategies and their role in climate-related conservation efforts (e.g., blue carbon, community-led habitat restoration).
  • Enhancing Transboundary Cooperation: Discussing how multi-stakeholder engagement can strengthen regional conservation initiatives.

Additionally, the session will underscore capacity building and knowledge exchange, providing a platform for member States and relevant stakeholders to share best practices and enhance skills for managing MPAs and addressing regional marine environmental challenges. Insights from the North-East Asian Marine Protected Areas Network (NEAMPAN)[: The North-East Asian Marine Protected Areas Network (NEAMPAN) aims to establish an effective, functional representative network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the subregion for conservation of marine and coastal biodiversity and more efficient MPA management. As of May 2024, NEAMPAN has 12 designated MPA sites across five member States in North-East Asia.] will be crucial, reflecting the collective experience of MPAs from five member States (China, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Japan, Republic of Korea, and the Russian Federation) under the North-East Asian Subregional Programme for Environmental Cooperation (NEASPEC).

Program

Time AGENDA
Panelists (Note: Panelists and topics are subject to change as confirmations are still pending)

  • Officer(s) from ESCAP
  • Researchers from KMI
  • NEAMPAN Steering Committee from NEAMPAN member States
  • MPA manager(s) from NEAMPAN sites

Experts nominated by conveners, and regional entities (PNLC (PEMSEA Network Learning Center), UNESCO, IUCN Asia, other UN entities (TBC)) 
Presentations (Note: Topics and speakers are subject to confirmation):

  • NEAMPAN on the role of CMSP in MPA networks (15~20 minutes)
  • KMI on the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems (15~20 minutes)
Discussions by invited experts (10 minutes for each) (Note: Topics and speakers are subject to confirmation):

  • Regional Collaboration Models: Case studies on successful regional cooperation in North-East Asia under NEAMPAN, highlighting best practices in marine protection and sustainability.
  • Science and Research Highlights: Discussion on recent scientific research and innovations that contribute to the sustainable management of the seas of East Asia. The role of emerging technologies and methodologies in enhancing marine conservation efforts will be emphasized.
  • Policy Frameworks and Initiatives: Analysis of current policy frameworks and exploration of future directions for regional marine policy, including the impact of international agreements and national commitments on the sustainable use of marine resources.
  • Community and Stakeholder Engagement: Exploration of effective mechanisms for enhancing stakeholder participation in marine protection efforts. This includes focusing on community-led initiatives, public-private partnerships, and capacity-building programmes.
26 August, 2024

Session ST 2.2: A Training Session on Pollution Assessment and Management (PAM)

Convenors

State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP), City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China (SKLMP) Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA)

Venue

TBC

Overview

This 4-hour training session will introduce the fundamental concepts and best practices in environmental risk assessment and management of chemical contaminants. It will also provide an overview of the frontier technologies in monitoring and assessment of marine pollution. Special focus will be placed on new pollutants and the risks they pose to the marine ecosystem and public health. We will also introduce the research progress of some global-scale studies. 

Through this training session, participants will acquire the concepts and principles of environmental risk assessment, risk management, and communication as applied in practice. They will also understand the basic risk assessment tools (i.e., prospective, retrospective, and tiered approaches) for environmental risk management. By learning from the latest research, participants will learn about advanced methods for monitoring emerging chemicals of concern and their current status in coastal environments around the world. This training session will also enable participants to appreciate and employ modern approaches in pollution assessment and management in environmental policy formulation and decision-making.

Program

Time AGENDA
Chair

  • Professor Kenneth Leung (Chief Professor), Dean of School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong; Chair Professor of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong; Director of State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (City University of Hong Kong)
10 min Welcoming and Introduction

  • Professor Kenneth Leung
40 min Environmental Risk Assessment and Risk Management

  • Professor Kenneth Leung
40 min Ecotoxicology of Persistent Organic Pollutants

  • Professor Xinhong Wang (Professor), State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science (MEL), Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University
40 min Environmental Monitoring and Innovative Technology

  • Professor Rudolf Wu (Research Chair Professor), Advisor (Environmental Science), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong; Member of SKLMP
10 min Break
40 min Environmental Risks of E-Waste

  • Professor Henry He (Assistant Professor), School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong; Member of SKLMP
40 min The Threats and Monitoring Techniques for Antibiotic Resistant Gene

  • Dr. Xuemei Mao (Research Assistant Professor), Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong
20 min Free Discussion and Closing Remarks
26 August, 2024

ST 2.7: Yellow Sea Biosphere Conservation Cooperation (Regional Cooperation for the Yellow Sea Ecosystem Conservation)

Convener

Korea Environment Institute (KEI)

 

Venue

TBC

Overview

The Yellow Sea is a sea area shared by three countries, South Korea, China, and North Korea, and has a high social
and economic contribution. The coastal wetlands of the Yellow Sea are a very important habitat for migratory
animal species such as marine mammals and migratory birds. Recently, China and Korea are making efforts to
protect their coastal wetlands (the Yancheng area in China and the southwestern part of Korea) by registering
them as UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites. The Yellow Sea is a large marine ecosystem, and countries that
share it agree on the need for joint cooperation to preserve the Yellow Sea. In this session, Korea and China's
policies, actions, and pending tasks for yellow sea ecosystem conservation will be introduced, and cooperation
measures between neighboring countries will be discussed.

Integrated management of border oceans was selected as the session topic to contribute to the theme of this
PEMSEA EAS Congress, “Blue Synergy for a Common Future.” Conservation of the Yellow Sea ecosystem is a task
that must be accomplished for the common future pursued by neighboring countries. Additionally, the Yellow Sea
is very important as part of East Asian Seas, and this regional solutions should be of interest.

Expected Outcomes and Outputs
● List of proposed regional solutions can be sought among countries bordering the Yellow Sea. Exemplary
management of the Yellow Sea also has important implications for the management of East Asia’s marine
ecosystem.

Program

TIME AGENDA
15:15 – 14:20 Welcome address

  • Dr. Jongho AHN, Korea Environment Institute
14:20 – 15:05  Presentations:

Korea’s Yellow Sea conservation policies, activities and tasks

  • Speaker: Dr. Choong-ki KIM, Korea Environment Institute

China’s Yellow Sea conservation policies, activities, and tasks

  • Speaker: Prof. Jing XU, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences

Meaning and importance of yellow sea ecosystem conservation in East Asia

  • Speaker: Mr. Spike MILLINGTON, International Crane Foundation
15:05 – 15:45 Discussion

  • Dr. Sheila VERGARA, ACB
  • Dr. Suk-jae KWON, KIOST
  • Prof. Qinghua FANG, Xiamen University
  • Free discussion by audience
26 August, 2024

ST 2.4: Are you prepared for an oil spill incident? Introduction to Crisis & Incident Management and Oiled Wildlife Preparedness and Response

Convener

Oil Spill Response Limited (OSRL)

 

Venue

TBC

Overview

Oil pollution from accidental spills, whether from ships or drilling platforms, occurs globally, posing significant challenges to the local community and other key stakeholders. 

As a Tier 3 oil spill response organization, Oil Spill Response Limited (OSRL) operates worldwide to support our members in preparing for an oil spill incident. Our unique position enables us to integrate our experience and lessons learnt globally and derive insights to deliver effective solutions at the local level where our members operate. Following the NEBA-SIMA workshop held in 2021, OSRL will like to continue to share the industry good practices to oil spill preparedness and response.  

The workshop proposed the sharing on the Tiered Preparedness and Response framework which is another key output from joint industry review post Macondo incident in 2010. The workshop will also dive further into two response capabilities, mainly Crisis & Incident Management and Oiled Wildlife Response.

Following the Macondo incident in 2010, a joint industry task force was set up to review existing good practices to oil spill preparedness and response under Oil Spill Response Joint Industry Project (OSR-JIP). Tiered Preparedness and Response (TPR) philosophy was one of the key outputs of the project which identified (15+ 1) response capabilities necessary for a successful response to oil spill incidents, delivered at three different tiers.

Incident and Crisis Management. Whether undertaken by a government agency or a private organization, successful endeavors share the core principle of effective risk management. Unmitigated risks lead to incidents and crises. Incident and crisis management are central to an organizations’ system to return to its business as usual. The TPR recognizes Incident Management System (and by extension the Crisis Management) at the core of the wheel that links all the response capabilities together for efficient and effective approach in managing incidents and crises.            

Oiled Wildlife Preparedness and Response. Wildlife, particularly birds, reptiles, and mammals, are gravely impacted by oil spills. These environmental disasters not only damage ecosystems but also cause well-documented and often fatal harm to animals, requiring human efforts to save them. Asia is no stranger to oil spills. The geographic region is home to busiest ports in the world and major shipping routes. Furthermore, oil and gas activities are also present. These activities increase the risks of oil spill incidents. Oiled wildlife preparedness and response are set activities and/or mechanisms for managing risks to oiled wildlife. The mechanisms include but not limited to legislations, plan development, access to suitable resources, etc. 

Objectives:

  • Raise awareness on the TPR framework and understand its application on oil spill preparedness and response.
  • Dive into two response capabilities (Crisis & Incident Management System and Oiled Wildlife Response) by introducing core concepts / frameworks and sharing of case studies. 

Expected Outcomes/Outputs

  • Develop an appreciation of TPR philosophy.
  • Understand the core frameworks and concepts of Crisis & Incident Management and Oiled Wildlife Response.
  • Generate collaboration interest and/or engagement opportunities with other country/non-country partners.

Program

Time AGENDA
14:00-14:05 Introduction

  • Mr. Darren Waterman (OSRL)
14:05-14:15 An overview of Industry Good Practices to Oil Spill Preparedness and Response

  • Mr. James Tan (OSRL)
14:15-14:25 Tiered Preparedness and Response Framework

  • Mr. James Tan (OSRL)
14:25-15:10 Introduction to Oiled Wildlife Response

  • TBC
15:10-15:55 Introduction to Crisis & Incident Management

  • Mr. Norman Ramos
15:55-16:00 Summary and Closing

  • TBC
26 August, 2024