Concerns over inadequate dolphin protection zone

The first public consultation session of the new law to regulate the maritime areas has heard public concern over inadequate protection zones for the Chinese white dolphin.

The dolphin population of the Pearl River Estuary is believed to number around 2,500 animals, according to a TDM report.

However, environmental threats such as overfishing, water pollution and heavy marine traffic, along with coastal development, have impacted the population over the years.

Therefore, calls for protection zones for these endangered mammals have been deemed necessary to preserve the surviving population.

However, the head of the Maritime Administration Department of the Marine and Water Bureau, Hu Chu Pang, has warned the proposed protection zones would “restrict the overall development of Macau” and require “comprehensive consideration.”

Additionally, the necessary area for the Chinese White Dolphin National Nature Reserve covers an area of 460 square kilometers, while Macau has only 85 square kilometers of sea area, said Hu.

Hu said all areas marked in the proposal map are vital for Macau citizens to maintain their livelihoods.

He also said a marine protected area within the proposal map could be designated as a Chinese white dolphin reserve. Staff Reporter