Yantai's Changdao pioneers a zero-carbon future

From comprehensive ecological restoration to deep-sea aquaculture, and from zero-carbon transport systems to blue carbon finance, Changdao Island in Yantai, East China's Shandong province, is striving to become a global model for sustainable island development.

Located at the confluence of the Yellow and Bohai Seas, Changdao began seeing thriving marine aquaculture in the 1980s. However, by the 1990s, environmental degradation and overfarming had pushed the industry to the brink of collapse.

After these challenges, the island made ecological restoration a top priority. It launched a series of measures including reforestation, wastewater treatment, reduction of near-shore aquaculture, and the adoption of new energy solutions.

At the same time, Changdao is accelerating its transition toward an eco-friendly economy. Efforts include developing high-quality tourism offerings and cultural products, establishing modern marine ranches to boost sustainable seafood production, and introducing innovative financial tools such as "carbon sink loans" that turn environmental resources into economic assets.

Looking ahead, Changdao is taking on a pioneering role in institutional innovation, aiming to lead the way in marine ecological civilization for both Shandong province and China at large. The island is advancing gross ecosystem product (GEP) accounting, promoting blue carbon initiatives, and moving steadily toward its goal of becoming an international zero-carbon island. It is also seeking approval for China's first marine national park.

These integrated strategies have successfully turned the island's natural endowments into economic advantages, pioneering a unique pathway for realizing the value of ecosystem products in island regions. This marks a successful shift from environmental preservation to the realization of tangible economic benefits.