On October 30, 2025, as a special session of the 2025 China Marine Economy Expo, the "Blue Wave Conference: Youth Empowerment for Ocean Science and Action" was successfully held in Shenzhen.
This conference was jointly organized by the China Ocean Mineral Resources Research and Development Association, 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 , and the Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP) Programme. In active response to the United Nations Ocean Decade initiative, the conference brought together over a hundred young scientists, entrepreneurs, and industry representatives from approximately 20 countries worldwide to jointly explore the critical role of youth in advancing marine scientific innovation, ecological protection, and the sustainable development of the blue economy.
As a key parnter of the conference, DCC-OCC in partnership with Sun Yat-sen University's Center of Ocean Expediton, co-designed and organized the special session—Youth Action in the Ocean Decade Flash Event. Twelve young students from multiple countries, including undergraduates, master's students, and doctoral candidates, advanced to the finals. Within a three-minute time limit, each participant concisely presented their research findings, covering themes such as marine biodiversity, estuary and marine environmental monitoring, and the ocean carbon dioxide cycle. This session highlighted the contributions of the Ocean Decade major scientific programs in fostering the growth of young scholars.
group photo of participants and judges
Awarding ceremony
Meanwhile, in partnership with the National Maritime Museum and the Global Youth Philanthropy, curated the Global Youth Ocean Art Exhibition. With the theme "Youth Empowerment for Ocean Science and Action," the exhibition featured 96 artworks from both domestic and international artists. It made a remarkable appearance at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, attracting numerous conference attendees who paused to appreciate the works and cast votes for their favorite pieces.
Global Youth Ocean Art Exhibition
Looking ahead, we will continue to deepen its support for and cultivation of young scientists, striving to build an open and inclusive platform for international exchange and cooperation. By further unleashing the innovative potential of young researchers in the fields of marine science, climate action, and sustainable development, the center aims to empower global young scientists to play a greater role in international ocean governance and practice. Together, they will contribute youthful wisdom and scientific strength to building a healthy and sustainable blue planet.
