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From "White Pollution" to "Blue Granary": a multidimensional value study of the transition from traditional to ecological aquaculture
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A Chinese fishing bay swapped out crumbling foam buoys, a major source of ocean microplastic pollution, for sturdier plastic ones and cleaned up illegal fish farms. The result: healthier waters, a system that absorbs carbon dioxide, and six times more income for local fishing communities, showing that cutting plastic pollution and boosting the economy can go hand in hand.
Background: Traditional foam-based aquaculture in Dongshan Bay, Fujian, caused severe white pollution and ocean eutrophication. This study examines the multidimensional value of the transition from traditional to ecological aquaculture in the Xiaxikeng area. Methods: Field interviews with fishermen, on-site inspections, statistical analysis, and literature review were conducted. Results: Replacement of ~400,000 EPS foam buoys with HDPE plastic buoys, removal of 41,407 mu of illegal aquaculture, and installation of 100,000 plastic cages achieved significant ecological restoration. The 10,600-mu shellfish-algae co-culture area yields an annual carbon sink of 16,772.41 t, CO2-equivalent (~¥946,100). Village collective income rose from ¥360,000 (2018) to ¥2.22 million (2024). Conclusions: The transition creates a positive feedback loop among ecological restoration, economic growth, and social governance, providing a replicable model for coastal China.
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