China has established the Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve to safeguard critical coral reef ecosystems in the South China Sea, according to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. Spanning 3,523.67 hectares off Hainan Province's Sansha City, the reserve includes a 1,242.55-hectare core zone for strict conservation and a 2,281.12-hectare experimental zone for sustainable research.
The initiative underscores China's commitment to marine biodiversity amid global climate challenges. Coral reefs, often called 'rainforests of the sea,' support 25% of marine species while protecting coastlines from erosion. Huangyan Dao's reefs are particularly vital for regional fisheries and carbon sequestration.
"This reserve balances ecological preservation with scientific innovation," stated an administration representative. Researchers will study reef resilience and restoration techniques in the experimental zone, offering insights for tropical marine conservation worldwide.
The move aligns with China's broader environmental goals, including its 2060 carbon neutrality pledge. For investors, it signals growing opportunities in sustainable marine tech, while travelers gain potential ecotourism destinations under carefully managed conditions.
