Ocean—a source of life, has been overused and heavily polluted. While the traditional approaches might not be able to solve the complexity of the ocean governance issues, there is a need to adopt a new way of thinking in order to deal with the current problems. This book emphasises the importance of law and policy while generating ocean governance initiatives. “Good Ocean Governance” as a new way of thinking, needs to be supported by legislation and decision makers. It is, therefore, necessary to examine whether the idea of good ocean governance exists within the international legal system and is subsequently subject to transfer into the domestic law. During this transaction process, a number of examples provided from the United States, Canada and Australia help to demonstrate the broad picture. Also included are discussions on the governance of marine resources, ship recycling and marine pollution, the impact of maritime clusters as well as social and culture impact of ports. The ultimate aim of this book is to tease out more new ideas and discussions on ocean governance issues.

Several disturbing issues pose a threat to the marine environment and its wellbeing, among them marine environmental pollution and degradation of marine biodiversity. Most troubling is that these issues are overwhelmingly caused by human activities which are sometimes transboundary, and their consequences will become more severe and complicated if not properly curbed. Thus, these activities require comprehensive policies, laws, and principles to manage them effectively. Linked to these solutions is the need for responsibilities, cooperation and commitments at local, national, regional and international levels. Contemporary Marine Environmental Law and Policy presents a thorough appraisal of the main issues, actors and institutions engaged in the legal aspects of marine environmental conservation. With contributions from an international range of authors, the book provides a concise account of the legal and policy framework underlying international marine environmental issues, and of the fundamental concepts and strategies that are important to the protection of the marine environment. Some of the topics explored include: the prevention of marine pollution caused by land based activities, ships, and offshore hydrocarbon and mineral resources exploration; the conservation and management of marine living resources; the marine environment in the polar regions; and the settlement of marine environmental disputes. This book provides a solid foundation for anyone studying International Environmental Law and the Law of the Sea. It will also appeal to anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of this hugely important subject.

Dr. Michèle Barbier is the founder of the private Institute for Science and Ethics. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regards to the Research Topic theme.

Oceans Governance in the Twenty-first Century analyses the development of national, regional and international initiatives and arrangements directed towards governance of the world's seas and oceans. The authors examine those factors that shape oceans governance, as well as the supports and constraints affecting policy development and implementation. In addition, the book invaluably includes discussion of contemporary international and selected regional initiatives - including the development of a maritime policy by the EU. The processes and outcomes that have arisen in the development of oceans policy in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the US are also summarised. This analysis centres on the key elements of institutional design, policy capacity, and the policy framework adopted as important supports to facilitate integrated oceans management. The book concludes that, despite increased attention to the oceans over the past two decades, major challenges remain, even where states have made concerted efforts to develop new approaches to ocean management. Marcus Haward and Joanna Vince's thorough study will appeal to researchers and academics at under and postgraduate levels working in the field of environmental management, as well as oceans and coastal management and governance. It will also be highly useful to policy makers with responsibilities for oceans and coastal management.