On June 20, the UN Ocean Decade Programme "Deep Ocean Microbiomes and Ecosystems (DOME)" was officially launched in Shanghai. Professor Qiao Fangli, Director of DCC-OCC, attended the launch ceremony and delivered a keynote report.

The DOME Programme, led by Shanghai Ocean University and spearheaded by Professor Fang Jiasong, was approved by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) in January 2025. It brings together top experts from 42 research institutions across 27 countries to decode deep-sea microbial "dark matter," accounting for 60% of Earth’s biomass yet poorly understood.

DCC-OCC actively supported DOME’s application by leveraging its role in coordinating Ocean Decade Programmes and promoting Ocean Decade initiatives, including hosting advocacy events at Shanghai Ocean University. At the launch, Professor Qiao presented China’s progress in implementing the Ocean Decade.

To date, China has secured 1 Collaborative Centre (DCC-OCC), 7 Programmes, 19 Projects, and 5 Implementation Partners under the Ocean Decade. This achievement stems from DCC-OCC’s efficient execution of duties. Moving forward, the Centre will continue advancing its coordination functions to contribute to the Ocean Decade's vision.

Director Qiao Fangli of DCC-OCC Attends the Launch and Delivers Progress Report on China's Ocean Decade Implementation