Protecting the oceans and coast of the Greater Mekong

Conserving coral reefs and mangrove forests

As a result of rapid and often unplanned economic development, coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests are under pressure from unsustainable exploitation and pollution.

The rapid expansion of aquaculture activities, for example, is polluting coral reefs and is adding to the widespread destruction of mangroves.

The lack of marine protected areas in the Greater Mekong region leaves fragile coral reefs exposed to destructive and unsustainable fishing.

Important marine ecosystems could be lost...

Coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass habitats are vital to maintaining fish stocks and, therefore, supporting coastal community livelihoods. But it is these habitats that are being seriously threatened by an increasing number of mainly man-made causes.

...unless we act now

Without urgent intervention from governments, scientists and non-government organisations, coastal areas are in danger of becoming unproductive wastelands.

Globally significant and endangered species still found in these countries include: dugongs and sea turtles. Cambodia and Thailand are also home to the critically endangered Irrawaddy dolphin.