New Book Explores the Role of Blue Parks in South China Sea Conservation and Peacebuilding

James Borton's new book, 'Harvesting the Waves: How Blue Parks Shape Policy, Politics and Peacebuilding in the South China Sea,' released on May 15, 2025, offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of marine conservation and international diplomacy. The book builds on Borton's previous research, presenting marine protected areas (MPAs), or 'blue parks,' as innovative tools for both safeguarding marine biodiversity and resolving conflicts in one of the world's most contested maritime regions.

The South China Sea, responsible for nearly 10% of the global fish catch and supporting six million livelihoods, faces significant threats from overfishing, destructive harvesting practices, and geopolitical tensions. Borton's work emphasizes the urgent need for collaborative conservation efforts, drawing parallels to successful MPA networks in regions like the Mediterranean. His analysis suggests that science-based cooperation and legal frameworks can serve as a foundation for peacebuilding and environmental stewardship.

Highlighting the importance of the Decade of the Ocean, Borton calls for actionable solutions to protect marine ecosystems while addressing transboundary challenges. The book aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework's goals, advocating for the conservation of 30% of marine and coastal areas by 2030. Borton proposes the creation of a regional conservation forum in the South China Sea, inspired by the MedPAN network, to encourage cooperation among claimant nations.

Borton's insights were further explored during a July 2024 webinar, where experts discussed the role of MPAs in easing geopolitical tensions. Success stories, such as the Red Sea Peace Park initiative between Israel and Jordan, were showcased as examples of how environmental cooperation can lead to diplomatic breakthroughs. 'Harvesting the Waves' is not just a scholarly examination but a call to action for policymakers, scientists, and conservationists to unite in protecting the oceans and fostering international collaboration.