Geopolitical Tensions Destroying South China Sea Coral Reefs: Report

A picture taken on April 21, 2017 shows an aerial view of a reef near Thitu island in the disputed Spratly Islands. Ted ALJIBE / AFP

While states compete in territorial disputes in the South China Sea, a hidden crisis is unfolding beneath the surface.

The region’s shallow coral reefs are being devastated by industrial overfishing, rampant island-building, and reckless giant clam harvesting, with China and Vietnam being the biggest offenders.

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by Barry van Wyk

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