BEIJING: China’s newly released management measures for the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve are a significant step aimed at protecting the island’s rich biodiversity, officials and experts said.
The 16-article management measures for the reserve, which is a newly established protected area in the South China Sea covering 3,523.67 hectares of coral reef ecosystems and rare marine habitats, were jointly issued on Saturday by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, the China Coast Guard and the People’s Government of Hainan Province.
According to the measures, a coordination mechanism has been established to address major issues, strengthen collaboration and share information.
Huangyan Island, which is part of the Zhongsha Islands, features unique coral reef ecosystems and distinctive geological formations. It is home to numerous rare and endangered species, including hawksbill turtles, green sea turtles, giant clams, triton shells and tiger cowries, making it a marine biodiversity hotspot of significant ecological value.
Chen Danhong, director-general of the department of international cooperation at the Ministry of Natural Resources, noted that the measures were issued in response to urgent demands to protect the ecosystem as it faces heightened risks, including the abnormal rise in sea temperatures caused by climate change and extreme weather, human activities and potential outbreaks of harmful organisms.
“The measures provide an institutional basis for protection management and law enforcement. Their implementation will significantly improve the construction and management of the reserve, and they are of great significance for maintaining the health and stability of the South China Sea marine ecosystem,” Chen said. –The Daily Mail-China Daily news exchange item
