Prevention of vessel-source pollution in the South China Sea: what role can China play?

Abstract

This article examines China’s role in the prevention of vessel-source pollution in the South China Sea. The article argues that, although the South China Sea is a disputed sea area, China has the potential to play a leading role to improve the prevention of vessel-source pollution in this area. By playing a key role in addressing the issue of vessel-source pollution China also has the opportunity to demonstrate its willingness to co-operate to protect the marine environment of the South China Sea without inflaming the thorny sovereignty disputes in the area. First, the sovereignty disputes in the South China Sea area are introduced. The legal options under international law for states to deal with vessel-source pollution are described. China’s practice on the prevention of vessel-source pollution in the South China Sea as a flag state, coastal state and port state is discussed. Finally, the article suggests that China may promote a strengthened port state control system in the South China Sea area to improve the prevention of vessel-source pollution without stirring up sovereign disputes.