Moira L. McConnell

Invasive seaweeds: global and regional law and policy responses.

Abstract We consider law and policy responses to invasive seaweeds at global and regional levels. Key global regimes considered include the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Ramsar Convention and the Bonn Convention on Migratory Species. Contributions from the Food and Agriculture Organization and the International Maritime Organization are also considered in the global context. At a regional level, examples of efforts in North America and Europe are offered to illustrate challenges and opportunities for regional responses to invasive seaweeds. We conclude with law and policy recommendations, most notably the need to approach the issue of invasive seaweeds in a manner consistent with the precautionary principle.

Capacity building for a sustainable shipping industry: a key ingredient in improving coastal and ocean and management

Abstract Shipping and ports are major factors in coastal and ocean development and have significant direct and indirect impacts on coasts and oceans. Transportation systems and particularly international shipping have always influenced coastal settlement and economic development activities. The emergence of issues, such as biodiversity protection, biosecurity and climate change, mandate a more integrated approach to dealing with ocean-based activities, such as shipping. However, the maritime industry—shipping and ports—is internally fragmented and both are isolated from the contemporary integrated coastal and ocean discussion and practice, despite their impact on coastal and ocean activity. This article argues that the maritime sector is a key factor in effective integrated marine ecosystem development and protection and should take a leadership role. However, there needs to be increased capacity to do so. Education and training relevant to sustainable development and integrated management practice needs to be widely and methodically available, particularly in the initial stages of Maritime Education and Training (MET) where professional values and practices are developed. Marine and maritime education should be integrated with a view to preparing people to work in an environment in which there is a wider range of actors and activities involved in matters relating to the impact of the shipping industry on coastal development and preservation. There needs to be education to encourage reflective thinking and human relations skills development for both on shore and seagoing personnel.

The Law Applicable on the Continental Shelf and in the Exclusive Economic Zone

Recent events such as environmental disasters and loss of life form accidents in offshore oil exploitation have generated significant interest in the question of who regulates, sets standards, and has responsibility and liability for activities in the wider ocean areas near coastlines. This reports surveys the laws of 13 countries to reach a number of observations. Despite codification and development of an international regime, the applicable law remains uncertain, fragmented, and undeveloped. The EEZ and continental shelf are not “law free” zones. Regionalism is having a significant impact on applicable law in this area. States have advocated and pursued spatial planning and various efforts to develop integrated management and ocean policy approaches.