World Ocean Day 2025 – “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”
Date: 5th June 2025
The China-Sri Lanka Joint Center for Education and Research (CSL CER) in collaboration with the Faculty of Marine Sciences & Technology (FMST), University of Ruhuna, commemorated World Ocean Day 2025 by organising a special knowledge-sharing event under the global theme “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us.”
The event united a diverse group of marine scientists, researchers, and marine professionals to explore critical challenges and opportunities surrounding ocean and coastal sustainability. The discussions covered a range of topics including climate change impacts, ocean warming, coastal pollution, and sustainable tourism practices.
Programme Highlights
Welcome Address
Prof. K.H.M. Ashoka Deepananda
Co-Director (Acting), CSL CER / Dean, FMST, University of Ruhuna
Introduction to CSL CER
Prof. Weiqiang Wang
Executive Director, CSL CER
Scientific Presentations
- Prof. Rong Xiang (South China Sea Institute of Oceanology): Evolution of Monsoon Precipitation Changes and ITCZ Migration in the East Indian Ocean Since the Last Glacial
- Prof. H.B. Asanthi (FMST, University of Ruhuna): Coastal Pollution and Its Economic Damage
- Dr. Rongwang Zhang (South China Sea Institute of Oceanology): Unveiling the Drivers of Tropical Indian Ocean Warming Through Application of Machine Learning Analysis to Surface Wind Data
- Prof. Lan Zhang (South China Sea Institute of Oceanology): Indian Ocean Cruise Review
Special Presentation
Mr. Sandun Wickramasingha (Marine Environment Protection Authority - MEPA):
Implementing the Blue Flag Beach Concept in Sri Lanka: A Strategy for Sustainable Coastal Tourism and Environmental Protection
Our Shared Responsibility
This event was a powerful reminder that protecting our oceans — the lungs of our planet — is a responsibility we all share. Together, through science, action, and awareness, we can shape a sustainable and hopeful blue future.
