The East Asian Seas Congress 2024, held from 6-8 November in Xiamen, China, welcomed over 800 participants from 20 countries to explore the theme: “Blue Synergy for a Shared Future: One Sustainable and Resilient Ocean.” The event highlighted global initiatives, including the ATSEA-2 Project’s efforts to advance marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, and climate resilience in the Arafura and Timor Seas (ATS) region.

Protecting Marine Ecosystems to Halt Biodiversity Loss

Dr Handoko Adi Susanto, ATSEA-2 Regional Project Manager, joined a session hosted by the Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation (KOEM). He explained how the ATSEA-2 Project contributes to global biodiversity goals, particularly the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to stop biodiversity loss by 2030.

During the session, Dr Susanto highlighted the valuation of the ATS region’s natural resources at a remarkable USD 7.3 billion per year, derived from fisheries, blue carbon storage, cultural heritage, and marine tourism. He also detailed the strategic creation of a resilient Marine Protected Area (MPA) Network, explaining, “we designed the first resilient MPA Network for the entire region to protect critical habitats and species by considering transboundary features like connectivity of fisheries and threats such as fishing and climate change.” This network spans 301,055 km² and includes 93 MPAs, endorsed by four ATS littoral nations.

The project also focused on species protection, with efforts like sea turtle conservation, reducing fishing bycatch, and restoring coral reefs and mangroves. Dr Susanto emphasised that involving local communities, using traditional knowledge, and connecting science with policy are key to ensuring long-term success.

Building Climate Resilience in the ATS Region

Simultaneously, Casandra Tania, ATSEA-2 Regional Biodiversity Specialist, took part in a session on Transboundary Strategies for Climate Resilience, organised by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and the Korean Maritime Institute (KMI). Tania highlighted the results of a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment (CCVA), which identified key threats to the ATS region, such as rising sea levels, ocean acidification and extreme weather.

The findings showed that coral reefs are particularly vulnerable, while seagrass meadows and mangroves are moderately at risk. These results helped shape climate-resilient MPAs to better protect these critical ecosystems. Tania also introduced ATSEA’s Strategic Action Programme, a long-term plan to ensure the ATS region is prepared to face climate challenges. Emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts, she noted, “When it comes to climate change, collaboration beats competition. It’s only by combining our strengths that we can create real solutions,” highlighting the need for integrated regional cooperation to address the challenges posed by climate change effectively.

Empowering Local Communities

In another plenary session on “Global Challenges, Local Solutions,” Dr Susanto further showcased ATSEA-2’s impact. He discussed the project’s work with local communities to foster meaningful change. “By providing tools, knowledge, and support, these partnerships empower local solutions that protect marine ecosystems and improve livelihoods,” he stated.

In Indonesia, for example, women are at the forefront of economic initiatives, producing fish crackers, seaweed products, and virgin coconut oil, which enhance household incomes and community resilience. Similarly, in Timor-Leste, women-led cooperatives promote sustainable practices that bolster livelihoods and environmental protection.

Meanwhile, in Papua New Guinea, ATSEA-2 collaborated with local communities in South Fly District to develop an Artisanal Fisheries Management Plan. This community-driven approach ensures sustainable fisheries management and serves as a replicable model for other regions.

Engaging Delegates at the ATSEA-2 Exhibition

The ATSEA-2 exhibition at the congress was a hub of interaction, where delegates learned about the project’s journey and its broad impacts. Visitors did not just see numbers, they heard real stories of impact and collaboration, proving that change starts locally.

Many delegates were eager to explore how ATSEA-2’s initiatives are creating tangible solutions and expressed appreciation for the project’s collaborative approach in addressing regional challenges. The interactive display provided an opportunity for meaningful exchanges, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of ATSEA-2’s work and its contributions to global goals.

Moving Forward Together

The East Asian Seas Congress 2024 was an opportunity for ATSEA-2 to share its successes and inspire others. Through collaboration, science, and community-led action, ATSEA-2 is proving that local solutions can address global challenges. As the project heads toward its conclusion in December 2024, its achievements will continue to support the region in building a sustainable and resilient future for the ocean and the people who depend on it.

By Yulia Dewi