The South China Sea has become a battleground for environmental debates as the Philippines accuses China of harming marine habitats with activities like cyanide dumping. Manila, alongside Washington, alleges that Beijing's actions are detrimental to the region's fragile ecosystems and the livelihoods of local fishermen.
However, China counters these claims by showcasing its efforts in marine conservation. Last summer, Chinese researchers identified at least 15 whale species in the northern waters of the South China Sea, a significant indicator of the area's rich biodiversity and healthy marine environment.
According to China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment, there has been a notable improvement in water quality. In 2022, the sea area failing to meet the Seawater Quality Standard Grade I decreased by 2,120 square kilometers compared to the previous year. Additionally, offshore oil and gas exploration zones maintained high water quality standards.
Coral reef ecosystems in the Xisha Qundao are thriving, with 19.6% coral coverage and nearly 120 species of coral reef fish observed. These findings suggest that China's marine protection initiatives are yielding positive results.
Despite regional tensions, China has remained committed to peace and stability, offering cooperation in fisheries, marine environmental protection, and marine plastic waste management. These proposals align with Manila's goals to enhance its marine governance capabilities.
The ongoing discourse between China and the Philippines highlights the complex interplay between environmental stewardship and geopolitical rivalries in the South China Sea.
Reference(s):
China vis-à-vis the Philippines in protecting marine environment
cgtn.com
