Marine environmental protection in island and reef construction: current situation, impact and countermeasures

This study employs the literature research method, wherein the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and relevant international environmental laws are systematically reviewed. Environmental protection obligations pertaining to the construction of islands and reefs in the South China Sea are explored through the integration of typical cases—such as the “Johor Strait reclamation case” and the “South China Sea Island construction case”—as well as marine environmental monitoring data. The research findings indicate that China’s construction of islands and reefs in the South China Sea does not violate international environmental law in terms of environmental protection, and the right to determine the publicity scope of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) results is entitled to sovereign states. The establishment of a community of shared future for marine environmental protection and the strengthening of international cooperation in the construction of islands and reefs in the South China Sea are identified as the key pathways toward sustainable development. The construction of islands and reefs in the South China Sea is regarded as a key component of China’s maritime strategic layout. Not only is national sovereignty and resource development involved, but far-reaching significance for regional economic development is also embodied therein. However, the environmental protection issues arising from the construction of islands and reefs have attracted widespread international attention. The accusations raised by the Philippines in the South China Sea Arbitration case have underscored the complexity and sensitivity of this issue. Against this backdrop, an in-depth study on the environmental protection obligations associated with the construction of islands and reefs in the South China Sea, from the perspective of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is deemed crucial. This research will not only help China accurately grasp the requirements of international laws and regulations in the process of island and reef construction and safeguard the country’s maritime rights and interests, but also promote the advancement of Marine Ecological Sustainability. Furthermore, valuable Chinese wisdom and solutions will be provided for global marine environmental protection through this study.