23/06/2009 - Recent months have seen a range of international and national initiatives on marine and coastal preservation, an important element in the global fight against climate change as well as the theme of EXPO Yeosu 2012 -   “The Living Ocean and Coast: Diversity of Resources and Sustainable Activities” (May 12 – August 12, 2012).

In preparation of its opening and as part of its theme development efforts, EXPO Yeosu held on May 7, in Seoul, ROK, its 2nd International Symposium titled, “Blue Economy Initiatives for Green Growth,” on the potential of the ocean and its resources to combat climate change.  Academics, experts, lawmakers, and others discussed the value and role of ocean-related industries as a future growth engine amidst the ongoing global economic recession.

Taking place in 2012, the year of expiration of Kyoto Protocol—which commits signatory countries to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions— EXPO Yeosu will aim to contribute to a post-Kyoto Protocol framework of action on climate change as well as marine and coastal preservation.

Below, a few examples in the recent months of the global movement to promote a better understanding of the role of the ocean in contributing to sustainable development and combating climate change.