Three-dimensional analyses of China's marine disaster management policies (1990–2022): With implications for carbon neutrality

Abstract

To address challenges associated with climate change, the concept of carbon neutrality has been proposed and explored worldwide. In this context, coastal blue carbon, recognized as one of the most effective carbon sinks, is regrettably highly susceptible to marine disasters. With this in mind, the present study scrutinized China's Marine Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (MDPM) policies (1990–2022) to complement its carbon neutrality strategy. Specifically, we developed a three-dimensional framework to systematically examine China's evolving MDPM policy landscape, considering administrative institutions, policy emphases, and policy instruments. To accomplish this, we integrated network analysis, word cloud analysis, and coding-based content analyses. We discerned that the interdepartmental collaboration in China's MDPM has augmented over time, signaling a transition towards integrated marine disaster management. Additionally, there were notable transformations in the policy emphases and policy instruments of China's MDPM at different periods, indicating the adaptive nature of its MDPM policies. However, rehabilitation and reconstruction have persistently received minimal policy attention, and the command-and-control approach has continued to be the predominant policy instrument. Our insights illuminate new avenues for advancing China's carbon neutrality, such as by synchronizing coastal blue carbon conservation with MDPM initiatives, adopting ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction methods, advocating for holistic management of the entire disaster process, involving societal participants, and by amplifying scientific and technological support coupled with boosting information transparency.