New Book Highlights 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, delves into the critical role of marine protected areas (MPAs) in addressing both environmental and geopolitical challenges in one of the world's most contested maritime regions. Released on May 15, 2025, the book builds on Borton's previous research, presenting networked MPAs, or 'blue parks,' as innovative solutions for conservation and peacebuilding.

The South China Sea, responsible for nearly 10% of the global fish catch and supporting six million livelihoods, faces threats from overfishing, destructive practices, and geopolitical tensions. Borton's work draws parallels with successful MPA networks like those in the Mediterranean, suggesting that science-based cooperation and regional monitoring can safeguard marine ecosystems while easing conflicts.

Highlighting the importance of the Decade of the Ocean, Borton's book aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework's goal to conserve 30% of marine and coastal areas by 2030. It proposes a regional conservation forum for the South China Sea, inspired by the MedPAN network, to foster collaboration among claimant nations. This initiative aims to protect the region's biodiversity and promote peace through shared stewardship.

Borton's insights were further discussed at a July 2024 webinar, where examples like the Red Sea Peace Park demonstrated MPAs' potential as diplomatic tools. Harvesting the Waves serves as a call to action for policymakers, scientists, and conservationists to prioritize ocean protection in the face of escalating environmental and political challenges.