Capacity Building Workshop on the Global Estuaries Monitoring (GEM) Programme Proceedings

The conservation and management of coastal and marine ecosystems, known as blue carbon ecosystems, have gained prominence for their critical role in climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. These ecosystems, including mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, and tidal marshes, are valued for their ability to capture and store carbon, reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Recognizing their importance, the 15th EAS Partnership Council approved the development of a PEMSEA Blue Carbon Program, managed by the PEMSEA Resource Facility (PRF) with guidance from Dr. Keita Furukawa and the PEMSEA Network of Learning Centers. PRF has outlined a roadmap focusing on supply, market, accounting, and certification of blue carbon.

This study by Kristina di Ticman centers on harmonizing blue carbon accounting protocols in the East Asian Seas region, a proposal agreed upon at the 2nd General Assembly of the PEMSEA Network of Learning Centers reviews accounting protocols from China, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, and RO Korea, alongside voluntary standards from VERRA, identifying similarities, gaps, and recommendations for harmonization.
 

The SDS-SEA IP 2023-2027 Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework and Plan was developed through a consultative and participatory process, involving the Monitoring and Evaluation Plan Technical Working Group. The framework was designed to serve as a comprehensive guide for assessing and enhancing sustainable coastal and marine development across the East Asian region. It underscores the critical role of M&E by enabling evidence-based decision-making, ensuring accountability, and fostering continuous improvement, all while aligning with global, regional, and national initiatives to achieve the objectives of the SDS-SEA IP.

The 8th East Asian Seas (EAS) Ministerial Forum was held on 6 November 2024 at the Xiamen International Convention Center, PR China, as part of the East Asian Seas Congress 2024. Hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources of China and organized by PEMSEA, the forum was attended by Heads of Delegation from 10 PEMSEA Country Partners, members of the PEMSEA Executive Committee, representatives from Non-Country Partners, and other collaborators. The event highlighted the key points of the Xiamen Ministerial Declaration, reinforcing commitments to sustainable ocean governance and the implementation of the SDS-SEA.

The East Asian Seas Congress 2024, in collaboration with the World Ocean Week in Xiamen, convened in Xiamen, China from November 6-8,  bringing together 855 delegates from 20 countries. Under the theme "Blue Synergy for a Shared Future: One Sustainable and Resilient Ocean," the Congress resulted in the signing of the Xiamen Ministerial Declaration, renewed partnerships, and strengthened commitments for sustainable ocean management in the East Asian region.

The Global Estuaries Monitoring (GEM) Programme extended a formal invitation to all existing and potential partners to participate in an exclusive workshop meticulously crafted to provide a comprehensive update on the latest advancements and achievements within the GEM initiative. This workshop serves as a pivotal
platform for attendees to acquaint themselves with ongoing projects within GEM, delve into the innovative development of passive samplers, and collaboratively design the forthcoming phase of the GEM Programme.
 

Throughout this workshop, participants can expect:

• Detailed updates on the progress and notable achievements of the GEM Programme.
• Insightful sessions focusing on the groundbreaking development of novel passive samplers.
• Engaging discussions aimed at collectively shaping the future trajectory of the GEM Programme.

Prospective attendees were warmly encouraged to join this significant event, where
knowledge-sharing, exploration, and collaborative planning converge to steer the
Global Estuaries Monitoring Programme towards heightened success and impact.