Scientifically based strategies for marine environmental protection and management

Current marine environmental protection strategies are analysed. An overall framework which would provide an opportunity for the application of developments in scientific understanding to the protection and management of the marine environment is also suggested. Because of the need to improve environmental protection on local, regional and global scales, management strategies should take account of all options for waste disposal (to land, sea or air). The marine environment must not be considered in isolation. New strategies should take account of an improved understanding of biogeochemical cycles and mass balance. There are 40 references.