On October 25, under the theme “Excellence in Science,” the 2024 World Laureates Forum (WLA) opened at its permanent site in Shanghai, China. The WLA’s Basic Science and Interdisciplinary Frontiers Forum featured a focus on Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions (ONCE) Creating New Productive Forces, aligning with the mission of advancing science for a shared human future. The ONCE Thematic Forum brought together leading global scientists to explore the latest advancements of ocean negative carbon emissions, practical applications, and the vision for future international governance in support of sustainable economic and environmental systems.
The Thematic Forum was inaugurated by Nianzhi Jiao, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Chief Scientist of ONCE. Keynote speeches followed, addressing the potential of ocean-based carbon dioxide removal (CDR), critical challenges and governance gaps, and innovations in green chemistry, such as methanol conversion, to support climate mitigation. Dongyan Liu, Chair of the IMBeR Scientific Steering Committee, moderated a panel discussion titled “Promoting Sustainable Development: The Intersection of Innovation and Practice.” This discussion highlighted nature-based solutions for tidal wetlands, technological innovations for climate adaptation, nutrient management, biodiversity enhancement, and mechanisms to strengthen international collaborations.
The Thematic Forum was co-organized by the World Laureates Association, the Ocean Negative Emission International Science Plan (ONCE), and the Research Center for Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions, Xiamen.
For more information, please visit the Forum webpage.