The XWOW focused on the theme, “Sustainable Development and Utilization of the Oceans.” The event was composed of the Conference proper focusing on the Scientific Development and Utilization of the Oceans and three separate forums on Seawater Utilization and Coastal Cities Development, the China Cruise and Yacht Development Conference and the 3rd Forum on the Development of Marine Economy of the West Coast of Taiwan Straits. The XWOW was attended by approximately 400 participants from 33 countries, which included local government officials from various countries, representatives from government agencies, international organizations, industries and private sector and the academe.

Topics discussed ranged from regional ocean governance and marine policy, climate change and sea level rise, integrated coastal management (ICM) and ecosystem-based management, sustainable use of seawater, and the technical aspects of seawater utilization. In particular, policies and measures as well as recent developments and technologies in seawater utilization, including their application in coastal cities, were discussed. The XWOW’s theme is very timely as water supply, its availability and sustainable utilization, is considered one of the limiting factors in the economic development of coastal cities.

Xiamen’s effort to make XWOW an annual affair ensures that emerging issues affecting the sustainable development of the coastal areas will be discussed and strategies and actions to move forward are identified. PEMSEA will continue providing support to this worthwhile initiative as part of its commitment to promote sustainable coastal development in East Asia.