The Dongsha Islands are rich in marine and mineral resources, and nearby countries have long been claiming territorial rights over them. However, competition among these countries over the years has taken a severe toll on Dongsha's ecosystem.

It takes a Coast Guard patrol ship three days to reach Taiwan's southernmost point.

The Spratly Islands have white sand beaches, blue waters, and incredible scenic views. In order to strengthen national defense measures and improve transportation, Taiwan cut down a tropical rain forest in 2006 to build a military airport.

According to an environmental survey, the move damaged or destroyed 90% of the coral reefs in the area.

Although a marine national park has since been established and marine life is beginning to recover, Taiwan is unable to stop Vietnamese and Chinese poachers from illegally entering the protected area.

Seven nations have laid claim to different parts of the islands over the past three decades, and each has used different methods to assert their claims.

The Spratly Islands is comprised of more than 200 reefs, of which China has control over eight, and Taiwan over one.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei each have asserted sovereignty over 45 reefs.

Many are calling for the nations to put aside their claims and instead focus on working together to preserve the islands' rich resources.

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