Results of the 5th Japan-China Experts Dialogue Platform Meeting on Marine Debris Cooperation and the 5th Japan-China Marine Debris Workshop

1. Date and Time: 9:00~12:30, July 16, 2024 (local time)

2. Venue: Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China

3. Hosts: Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People's Republic of China 

                   Ministry of the Environment of Japan

4. Participants:
    Japanese Side: Ministry of the Environment, universities, research institutions, public-interest organizations
    Chinese Side: Ministry of Ecology and Environment, universities, research institutions,  local governments, public-interest organizations

5. Achievements
   (1) Both sides presented and exchanged views on research on characteristics and ecological risk of marine microplastics pollution and technical methods for intelligent monitoring of marine debris. With regards to characteristics and ecological risk of marine microplastics pollution, both sides shared the view that while ecological impact (by particle effect and/or chemical effect) of microplastics is observed in laboratories, its scientific evidence is still underway, and we need novel methodology for a risk assessment, including laboratory experiments and field information, to understand its risk in the real environment, where the shape, size and type of microplastics vary. Regarding a method to understand the actual situation of marine debris, both sides presented the latest initiatives which utilize remote sensing technologies such as UAV (un-manned aerial vehicle, or drone) or a fixed camera to collect marine debris image information, analyze the images by utilizing AI, and build a digital database based on the information. Participants also discussed about how to further develop such initiatives in each country or promote such initiatives by collaborating with other countries.

   (2) Examples of local government initiatives on marine debris in both countries were shared and related discussion led to both sides gaining a deeper understanding of each other’s domestic policies. For instance, it was found that both countries have conducted clean-up activities, environmental studies and lectures, and events for a wide range of students from elementary school to university in order to raise awareness on marine debris at all levels. Moreover, initiatives which promote resource circulation from marine debris collection to recycling through collaboration between actors such as local governments, companies, and citizens were shared and discussions on how to promote such initiatives to other regions were held.

   (3) After the closure of the meeting, participants from both sides visited facilities for marine debris collection, disposal, and recycling which are operated as part of Zhejiang Province’s marine plastic debris collection and recycling program “Blue Circle” and exchanged views.

   (4) Both countries recognized the value of exchanging views on measures against marine debris pollution and agreed to continue cooperation in the future.

   (5) It was proposed and recognized that the 6th meeting would be hosted by Japan in about the first half of 2025. The details are to be decided after further consideration.