On 11 March 2025, IMC launched the first session of its International Mangrove Wetland Lecture Series. The lecture was delivered by Prof. Lu Changyi, a leading expert in mangrove conservation in China and Dean of the School of Environmental Science and Engineering at Xiamen University Tan Kah Kee College.
Around 200 participants from government agencies, research institutions, and conservation organizations attended the event both online and in person. Participants included representatives from the Department of Wetlands Management of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, the Chinese Academy of Forestry, the China Wetlands Association, the Guangdong Neilingding Futian National Nature Reserve Administration, as well as researchers from the Guangxi Academy of Forestry, the Guangxi Marine Research Institute, and Shenzhen University.
Prof. Lu Changyi delivering the lecture
With nearly five decades of research and field experience, Prof. Lu provided a comprehensive overview of mangrove ecosystems, including their biological characteristics, major species, ecological functions, and economic value. He also examined the key drivers of mangrove degradation and introduced a range of conservation techniques and management approaches.
Using the “Xiamen experience” as an example, Prof. Lu presented several representative cases of mangrove conservation and restoration, including the mangrove development around Yundang Lake, ecological restoration at the Jiulong River Estuary in Longhai, the Taikoo Mangrove Restoration Base, and the construction of Xiatanwei Mangrove Park. These examples highlighted practical approaches and successful experiences in mangrove protection and restoration, providing participants with insights that combine scientific knowledge with practical application.
Prof. Lu emphasized that mangrove conservation is not only a scientific undertaking but also a responsibility and mission. As he noted, “We bring nothing to the Earth when we are born and take nothing away when we leave, but we can leave behind contributions that benefit the planet,” expressing his strong commitment to advancing mangrove conservation efforts.
The lecture helped deepen participants’ understanding of mangrove ecosystems while strengthening professional capacity and awareness of ecological conservation. Looking ahead, IMC will continue to host the lecture series on a regular basis, inviting leading experts from China and abroad to share insights on global mangrove conservation and restoration, wetland management, and related topics. Through these efforts, IMC aims to support global ecological sustainability and contribute to the long-term tion and sustainable development of mangrove ecosystems.