New Strategies for SDG 14: How China's Community Conservation Areas Accelerate Marine and Coastal Ecosystem Protection | Example of Spotted Seals Conservation

In response to the proposed theme of conserving, sustainably managing, and restoring marine and coastal ecosystems, including deep-sea ecosystems, a notable example of a new approach is the comprehensive strategy implemented by the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF) following the 2019 Dalin Spotted Seal poaching scandal. This tragic event highlighted the severe threats to marine mammal species and coastal biodiversity due to illegal wildlife trade. To address this, CBCGDF established five Community Conservation Areas (CCAs) for spotted seals across key locations such as Beidaihe, Dalian, and Panjin. These areas involve local communities and volunteers in anti-poaching patrols, significantly contributing to the protection of this vulnerable species.



Additionally, CBCGDF has developed national standards for spotted seal welfare and protection, which guide wildlife conservation and rescue efforts. Through the Yellow Sea Grant Program (YSGP), under support by GEF/UNDP, the CBCGDF has conducted extensive outreach and educational campaigns across a total of 22 community-based protected areas in over 20 provinces, engaging coastal communities, schools, and fishing villages. This initiative has raised public awareness about wildlife protection and has been instrumental in promoting the establishment of a network of marine protected areas in the Yellow and Bohai Seas. The impact of these efforts is documented in the Global Environment Facility (GEF) official project report, reflecting significant progress in accelerating the implementation of SDG 14.


The new approach and partnership exemplified by the Community Conservation Areas (CCAfa) initiative represents a significant advancement in biodiversity conservation efforts. Established in 2016 by the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF), CCAfa reflects the philosophy of Biodiversity Conservation in Our Neighborhood (BCON) . This initiative actively involves local communities in the protection of biodiversity and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods. As of summer 2024, over 220 CCAfa sites have been established across China. These sites play an OECMs' role in advancing the United Nations' biodiversity conservation targets, demonstrating the effectiveness of community-driven conservation models in achieving sustainable development goals.

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Reference：

61 seal cubs rescued from poachers

http://www.ecns.cn/news/society/2019-02-27/detail-ifzevinw9629975.shtml

2020 Spotted Seal Scientific Synchronous Observation Outcomes

http://www.cbcgdf.org/English/NewsShow/5002/12045.html

100 baby seals stolen from breeding ground in NE China, 1/3 die in poor treatment - Global Times http://www.globaltimes.cn/content/1139122.shtml

China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation 

“Construction of the Yellow-Bohai Sea Spotted Seals Protected Area Network” Project Executive Report （2019.12）

http://www.yslmep.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/CBCGDF%E2%80%94%E2%80%9CConstruction-of-the-Yellow-Boh...pdf


Reported by Wendy

Editor: Sara    

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776






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