Zhoushan's Baisha Island accelerates green and low-carbon development

Baisha Island is located in Putuo district, Zhoushan, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Zhoushan Ecological Environment Bureau]

Baisha Island, located in Putuo district, Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, has accelerated the development of a "blue carbon" economy to explore new ways to turn its marine advantages into carbon emission reduction, according to Tide News on Oct 15.

The concept of blue carbon was introduced in a United Nations report titled Blue Carbon: The Role of Healthy Oceans in Binding Carbon, and refers to carbon that is absorbed from the atmosphere and stored in coastal and marine ecosystems.

On Baisha Island, the national marine ranching demonstration area covers 2 square kilometers of sea area and its artificial reef area reaches 25,700 square meters, making contributions to fishery resource protection, ecological enhancement, and tourism development.

The island's northern coastal road, over 3,000 meters long, invites visitors and residents to enjoy the scenic views by walking, cycling, or even riding some of the electric sightseeing vehicles available for eco-friendly tourism. Along the road, nearly 4,500 square meters of herbal flowers have been planted.

With over 80 percent vegetation coverage, Baisha Island has little industrial pollution or vehicle noise and is just fresh air, blue waters, and rich marine resources.

Public fishing areas and recreational diving on the island allow tourists to enjoy marine sports while experiencing ecological conservation.

Baisha Island has promoted clean energy and established waste sorting and recycling systems, according to the local government.