Troubled Waters
A new book Troubled Waters: Ocean Science and Governance was launched at the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology in London on 29 September 2010.
The oceans are the most shared, used and exploited of resources yet they are also one of the least well known, protected and surveyed. 75% of the planet’s surface is covered by the ocean and an estimated 40% of the world’s human population lives in the coastal zone.
Published on the 50th anniversary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, the volume examines how science informs the understanding of the oceans and how this information has influenced decision-makers and ocean policy. Drawing on the experience of 30 international experts, Troubled Waters looks at the necessity of effective intergovernmental cooperation to ensure the global sustainability of this precious resource, using past successes and failures in ocean management as examples. With a focus on key topical issues such as marine pollution, exploitation and hazards, chapters range from the history of ocean management to current advances in marine science, observation and management applications, and the international agencies active in co-ordinating this work.
Well managed and healthy oceans are vital to the survival of small island states, such as the Maldives. This important book shows how scientists and governments can better protect the world's oceans."
- Mohamed Nasheed, President of the Republic of Maldives
Where ecological phenomena outlast the political lifetime of decision makers, where the frontiers of Nations are no longer barriers, the principles of harmonisation and inter-governmental collaboration take on their full value."
- HSH Prince Albert of Monaco
The UK book launch was attended by Dr Wendy Watson-Wright, IOC Executive Secretary and IOC Assistant Director-General of UNESCO who also gave the IMarEST Stanley Gray Lecture on 'The challenge of ocean governance: An IOC perspective'.
The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO is the UN organisation dedicated to ocean science and services and is responsible for fostering cooperation between governments on global issues about oceans. The IOC provides strategic counsel and guidance to member nations on matters of ocean governance in such areas as marine research, observation systems, hazard mitigation and capacity development. It celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2010.
Written: 30/09/2010 , last modified: 30/09/2010
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50 years of ocean monitoring: Interview with Dr Wendy Watson-Wright
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