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Rising to the challenge

A new wave of young ocean guardians in the South China Sea LME

By IW:LEARN

February 24^th, 2025

Imagine a future where the vibrant coral reefs of the South China Sea burst with life, endangered sea turtles glide through crystal-clear waters, and coastal communities thrive in harmony with the ocean. This vision is not a distant dream; it is an achievable reality, thanks to the growing wave of young ocean guardians rising to protect this precious marine ecosystem.

The South China Sea Large Marine Ecosystem (LME) and the Gulf of Thailand LME cover an impressive 3.5 million square kilometers and are bordered by seven countries: Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. This LME illuminates the complex challenges facing the region. Climate change, pollution, overfishing, and habitat degradation threaten the delicate balance of this marine treasure, jeopardizing the livelihoods of millions who depend on it.

The South China Sea, a critical Large Marine Ecosystem, faces the interconnected threats of climate change, pollution, and declining biodiversity. Photo: Naja Bertolt Jensen/Unsplash.

Amidst these challenges, the passion and commitment of young people determined to safeguard their marine heritage shines through. Across the region, a new generation is stepping up to protect the South China Sea LME, driven by a shared understanding that the future of their communities and the ocean are inextricably linked.

"As marine science students, we have a responsibility to protect our ecosystems,"

Declares Raksita Prasongphol, a student at Kasetsart University in Thailand.

(From left) Raksita Prasongphol and Sirakan Supundit, students at Kasetsart University in Thailand, embody the hope for a brighter future for the South China Sea LME. Photo: Sam Sherwood-Hale.

"We need to help people understand that climate change impacts all of us. If we don't act now to preserve our marine environments, future generations of scientists won't have anything left to study."

He adds.

Raksita's words resonate with young people worldwide. A 2022 study by the World Economic Forum found that 70% of young people consider climate change and environmental issues to be the biggest challenges facing the world.

The GEF/UNEP/UNOPS SCS SAP Implementation Project, together with its six partner countries, is crucial in supporting youth engagement in marine conservation. Through initiatives like Project Day at Kasetsart University, young people connect with experts, share their ideas, and explore career paths in marine science and conservation.

"Today's session opened my eyes to new possibilities in ocean science,"

shares Sirakan Supundit, a student at Kasetsart University.

"While my work in oceanography might not directly address biodiversity, I see how this knowledge is crucial for ecosystem conservation. It's all connected to our daily lives, and I'm excited to contribute to these projects."

Sirakan Supundit highlights.

The Faculty of Fishery SCS SAP Project Day on 17 January 2025 at Kasetsart University. Photo: SCS SAP project.

The energy and commitment of young individuals like Raksita and Sirakan illuminate the path toward a thriving future for the South China Sea LME.

In Vietnam, a wave of young innovators is tackling ocean pollution with creative solutions, developing initiatives to reduce plastic waste and protect marine ecosystems. In the Philippines, youth organizations are leading mangrove reforestation efforts, recognizing the vital role these coastal forests play in protecting coastlines and supporting biodiversity.

These inspiring initiatives demonstrate the power of youth engagement in driving positive change. But to truly unleash the potential of young ocean guardians, we need to continuously invest in their education, provide mentorship opportunities, and create platforms for their voices to be heard.

The South China Sea LME is a vibrant ecosystem that will support the livelihoods, cultures, and well-being of millions for generations to come. Its future is intertwined with the well-being of marine life and human communities. With passionate young leaders and experienced mentors joining forces, we can be confident that the legacy of a healthy and abundant ocean will endure.

About the GEF / UNEP SCS SAP Project

The project “Implementing the Strategic Action Programme for the South China Sea and Gulf of Thailand” (SCS SAP Project) is funded by the GEF and implemented by UNEP. The project aims to assist countries in meeting the targets of the coastal and marine environment components of the approved Strategic Action Programme (SAP) for the South China Sea through the implementation of the National Action Plans in support of the SAP and to strengthen the regional coordination for the South China Sea SAP implementation.

The SCS SAP Project will be implemented for five years and executed with the support of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in partnership with the Environment Ministries of Cambodia, PR China, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.