The Yellow Sea – A High-Value Large Marine Ecosystem (LME)

1. he Yellow Sea is one of the 66 Large Marine Ecosystems (LME) designated by the UN, recognized for its high socio-economic and ecological value.
2. As a semi-enclosed sea, water circulation is slow, making it highly vulnerable to pollution accumulation.
3. The tidal range exceeds 4 meters, contributing to widespread tidal flats, but also exacerbating pollution dispersion.

Environment – Increasing Crisis Due to Inflow of Land-Based Pollutants

1. While offshore pollution levels in the Yellow Sea have remained relatively stable since the 1990s, coastal areas are experiencing increasing pollution due to untreated sewage, industrial wastewater, and solid waste from surrounding countries.
2. The plastic pollution risk index along China’s Yellow Sea coast is 24 times higher than the global average, and without intervention, this issue will continue to worsen.

Sustainability – The Need for International Cooperation in Marine Protection

1. The Yellow Sea is directly linked to the economic and environmental activities of Korea, China, and North Korea.
2. Pollution originating in one country rapidly impacts the neighboring countries, making cross-border cooperation essential.
3. Without international action, the continued deterioration of the Yellow Sea will threaten its long-term sustainability and ecosystem services.

Initiative – A Collaborative Framework for Leading Marine Protection

1. Establishing a regional governance network to prevent marine pollution caused by microplastics, nutrient overloading, and other contaminants from urban and industrial sources.
2. Developing public awareness programs and advanced technologies to monitor and control pollution at every stage—from source to disposal and potential resource recovery.
3. Promoting innovative environmental technologies for a sustainable future in marine conservation and management.

The YES Initiative is a proactive effort to secure the environmental sustainability of the Yellow Sea through multi-stakeholder collaboration and science-driven solutions.