Global Environment Outlook 6 - Chapter 14

The impacts of human activities on the oceans have serious social and economic consequences that directly and indirectly affect human health and well-being. As noted in Chapter 7 of this report, major concerns include the effects of climate change, pollution, and excessive fishing. Coral bleaching is one of the most visible and immediate consequences of climate change affecting the oceans. Marine litter and plastic pollution have become increasingly important environmental challenges, while the depletion of fish stocks caused by excessive fishing remains a critical concern. Drawing on selected policy categories and related case studies, this chapter examines the main approaches and policy instruments used to address these issues (Table 14.1). Full report is available at: https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/27539