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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Environment
Prianka Srinivasan in Koror | Photography: Matthew Abbott

Trawl the sea or mine for metals? Pacific nations wrestle with how to protect oceans - and livelihoods

The Indonesia crew of the PaluaTuna 03 Palau's only locally owned long-line fishing company - demonstrating the process using long lines. The vessel is currently out of action due to repairs scheduled to be carried out by January next year.
Pacific countries, such as Palau and the Cook Islands, are exploring how to benefit from their ocean resources while protecting the environment. Photograph: Matthew Abbott/The Guardian

Dotted across the north-west of the Pacific Ocean, the limestone islands of Palau rise like forested domes. Beneath the waves, reefs pulse with activity – fish dart through coral gardens, turtles drift nearby, while sharks with black-tipped fins shadow a passing tourist boat.

Nearly a decade ago, the country took a bold step to safeguard this vibrant seascape, declaring 80% of its waters a no-fishing sanctuary.

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