Troubled Waters: ocean science and governance

Edited by: Geoff Holland and David Pugh (Cambridge University Press)

This volume has been compiled to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, which for half a century has been the UN organization responsible for fostering intergovernmental cooperation on global ocean issues. It draws on the experience of 30 international experts to look at how governments use science to establish ocean policies, with chapters ranging from the history of ocean management to current advances in marine science, observation and management applications, and the international agencies that co-ordinate this work.

With a focus on key topical issues such as marine pollution, exploitation, and hazards Troubled Waters reflects on past successes and failures in ocean management and emphasises the need for knowledge and effective government action to direct decisions that will ensure a sustainable future for this precious resource. Illustrated with dramatic, full-colour images, it is essential reading for researchers, students, policy makers and managers of the marine environment, and also provides an attractive and accessible overview for anyone concerned about the future stewardship of our oceans.

"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