Administrators of coastal cities and marine experts from around the world are due to meet in Xiamen in the southeastern province of Fujian today to discuss sustainable development.

The international forum, jointly sponsored by UN Environment Program, the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) and the host city government, is themed "Improving Marine Environment and Preventing Oceanic Pollution from Land-based Disposal."

Marine environmental protection experts are expected to suggest adopting high technology strategies in administrating coastal areas.

Runoff from lawns, roads, farms and industry is the primary source of ocean pollution.

Representatives from 23 overseas cities in countries including Australia, Japan, Italy and Brazil and a dozen Chinese cities, including Qingdao and Dalian, are planning to take part.

(CRI.com October 8, 2005)