Natural Resource and Environmental Conflicts in the Eastern Economic Corridor: Case Studies of Freshwater Resources, Marine and Coastal Resources and Waste Pollutions

Abstract

            Natural Resource and Environmental Conflicts in the Eastern Economic Corridor: Case Studies of Freshwater Resources, Marine and Coastal Resources and Waste Pollutions aims to examine the current status of resource-related conflicts and propose approaches for conflict management in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). This study adopts a qualitative research methodology, utilizing data collected from relevant documents, in-depth interviews with key stakeholders in the area, and non-participant observations. The findings reveal several types of conflicts in the EEC. These conflicts primarily arise from the expansion of economic activities that exploit shared resources without a fair management system. Prominent conflicts include disputes between industrial sectors and local communities over industrial waste management, tensions arising from coastal reclamation for port development, and disputes over water allocation between industrial and agricultural sectors. Conflict management practices typically begin with complaint submissions, public protests, legal interventions, and informal negotiations. Policy recommendations include: (1) establishing a conflict monitoring center based on nonviolent principles; (2) creating a shared database among stakeholder networks; (3) developing risk indicators to assess conflict severity; (4) promoting neutral platforms for communication and peaceful negotiation; and (5) implementing fair compensation and remedy mechanisms for affected parties.