The information that we need to understand the ocean can be divided into four main categories: (a) the morphology of the seafloor; (b) the composition and circulation of ocean water; (c) the biota of the ocean; and (d) the ways in which humans interact with the ocean (Ref: WOA Summary, page 42). An integrated assessment by definition needs to include environmental, social and economic information relevant to human activities, and all the components of relevant ecosystems, with input and information from a variety of geographic locations. The WOA Group of Experts considered that integrated assessment methodology required further development and refinement (Ref: WOA Summary, page 49). The sustainable use of the ocean cannot be achieved unless there is coherent management of all human activities affecting it (Ref: WOA Summary,page 9).

Year: 2016

From collection: World Ocean Assessment Overview

Cartographer: Kristina Thygesen