On September 25, the world marks World Maritime Day, and 2025's theme, "Our ocean, our obligation, our opportunity," captures the urgent need to protect marine life while innovating for tomorrow. Along the coasts of south China's Guangdong Province, Nan'ao Island is rising to that challenge.
Sitting on the Tropic of Cancer off Shantou City, Nan'ao is now home to 116 sleek offshore wind turbines slicing through sea breezes. As of June 2025, three wind farms with a combined capacity of 1.2 million kilowatts are buzzing with green energy, powering homes and industries across the region.
Beyond turbines, Nan'ao thrives as an ecological haven. June's southeastern monsoon sweeps warm, moist air over ancient fig forests, newborn black-naped terns, and vibrant undersea communities. The island's medicinal herbs and diverse marine life remind us that economic progress and nature can flourish side by side.
These offshore farms illustrate how smart investments and innovation can deliver real-world impact. For entrepreneurs, they signal opportunities in emerging markets. For thought leaders, they show how sustainability and policy can meet. And for travelers and digital nomads, they highlight a destination where technology and nature blend in perfect harmony.
As the blue planet faces rising challenges, Nan'ao Island stands as a testament to what happens when communities turn obligation into opportunity, harnessing the wind to power a cleaner, greener future.
Reference(s):
Guardians of the blue planet: Advancing wind power in Guangdong
cgtn.com
