[Yongxing Island in December 2014. [Photo: guancha.cn]]

Chinese authorities have authorized the creation of a so-called "Blue Silicon Valley" in the coastal city of Qingdao.

The project is a high-tech zone based around marine research and development.

The municipal government in Qingdao is hoping to turn the "Blue Silicon Valley" into a hub for marine science and technology. 

Qingdao is already home to a number of oceanic research institutes.

The city, on top of being home to China's most popular brand of beer, is also renowned as one of China's most popular port cities.

Qindao hosted the sailing events for the 2008 Olympics.