Imagine trading your fishing rod for a trash picker and sunscreen. That’s exactly what dozens of fishermen in China’s Xisha Islands (Paracels) have done since 2017, forming Island and Reef Ranger teams to protect one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. CGTN recently joined rangers on Zhaoshu Island to see their mission in action.
Guardians of Turquoise Waters 🌴
Every sunrise, these rangers patrol beaches, monitor coral reefs, and clear plastic waste threatening sea turtles and tropical fish. Their work has helped reduce illegal fishing and boosted local biodiversity. "We’ve seen more baby turtles hatching this year than ever before," one ranger shared, grinning beneath his wide-brimmed hat.
Tech Meets Tradition 📱🌏
Using drones and GPS trackers alongside traditional knowledge, the teams map ecological changes in real time. It’s a modern twist to ancient stewardship – proving sustainability isn’t just a buzzword but a way of life here.
