Environment security perspective to coral reef protection and management: a comparative study of India and Australia

ABSTRACTCoral reefs are home to a variety of flora and fauna and carry huge potential in serving the national interests of the coastal states that host them. The research uses an environment security theoretical framework to understand how it is the state’s prerogative to protect coral reefs to protect its own national interest. Active state involvement in the protection of reef ecosystems is the most practical option in the face of global warming and climate change, with limited consensus on this environmental problem within the international community. The research explains how a state can actively engage in coral reef management by focusing on pollution control related to tourist activity in the reef areas. A comparative analysis of coral reef management by India and Australia shows how active coral reef management can help protect reef structures, giving maximum return benefits to the state. Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).Additional informationNotes on contributorsVrinda AravindVrinda Aravind is a PhD candidate at MMAJ Academy of International Studies, Jamia Milia Islamia University in Delhi, India. She holds her Master’s and Bachelor’s in international relations from Christ University, Bangalore and the Central University of Kerala, respectively. Vrinda specialises in Security Studies, South Asia, Nuclear Policy and Foreign Policy.