China founds alliance to protect sea turtles

SANYA -- A national sea turtle protection alliance was officially established in Sanya city, South China's Hainan province, on Wednesday.

Initiated by the National Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Association under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the alliance is a public welfare platform initially composed of over 90 organizations including government organs, law enforcement organizations, universities and NGOs.

Zhang Xianliang, director in charge of fishery affairs with the ministry, said the alliance which aims to promote communication and cooperation is effective for the protection of wildlife.

China has established alliances to protect the Chinese sturgeon, Yangtze finless porpoise, Chinese white dolphin and spotted seal, he said.

Due to human activities and climate change, the turtle's habitas has been damaged and the population is declining, he said.