Development and Implementation of an Ecosystem Approach to Ocean Management

Dr. Wang briefing his work on the UN project on Ecosystem-based Management of the Oceans to the Division for Oceans Affairs and the Law of the Sea at the UN headquarters.

Introduction

The worldwide application of an ecosystem approach to the protection and management of the environment and natural resources by 2010 was encouraged at the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) in 2002.

In recent years, the concept of an ecosystem approach has been gradually extended from terrestrial resource management to coastal and ocean management, and the adoption of an ecosystem approach to ocean management (EAOM) has become an international trend. Practicing this approach involves a range of complicated issues concerning science, law and politics.

Successful development and implementation of an ecosystem approach relies on sound understanding and appropriate handling of these multidimensional issues. This seminar discussed the concept and principles of an ecosystem approach, the necessity of adopting EAOM, relevant international practice, and the challenges to the approach.

About the Speaker

The speaker Dr. WANG Hanling is Professor of International Law and Marine Affairs; Director, Centre for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, Institute for International Law, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and currently a visiting research fellow in the Centre for International Law, National University of Singapore.