Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
2.1 Introduction
The global ocean provides humankind with vital ecosystem goods and services that include
theregulationoftheEarth'sclimate, aswellasprovisionoffoodandothergoods,recreation,
and spiritual values. The ocean is not only important for the Earth's economy, but also its
Human uses ofthe ocean include fishing (food),shipping, scientific research, the use of
genetic resources, mining, underwater cables, energy, water, and recreation. While all those
involved in these uses can be considered as ocean stakeholders, the concept of stakeholder
is broader than just direct use. Stakeholders can include groups affected by management de-
cisions; groups concerned by management decisions; groups dependent on the resources to
be managed; groups with claims over the area of resources; groups with activities that im-
pact on the area or resources; and groups with, for example, special seasonal or geographic
interests (Vierros
et al
.,
2006
). Ultimately, however, the entire population of the Earth de-
pends in one way or another on the ocean for their survival, due to the climate regulating
and oxygen providing services of these areas, and can thus be considered to be stakeholders.
Preserving and maintaining the services provided by the ocean will require integrated,
ecosystem-based management approaches and governance structures at both global and loc-
al levels, which will take into account both direct human uses and conservation needs, as
well as global benefits. Many habitats and species in the ocean are highly threatened by hu-
man activities, and the current governance regime is not sufficient and in many cases too
fragmented to provide for effective management and protection of multiple and emerging
threats.
