New technologies contribute to the increasingly intensive exploration and exploitation of marine biological and mineral resources. Safeguarding the ocean's resources for present and future generations is an essential condition for sustainable development and requires a holistic approach, as no one discipline in itself can provide a solution in an era of rapid legal, economic and technological development. This unique work, bringing together contributions by renowned scientific and legal experts, analyses these new technologies, their impact on the marine environment and the current and possible future responses of international environmental law and law of the sea.

New technologies, particularly those which are likely to provide an important part of the world's future food supply, have a significant impact on the environment, human health and natural resources. The first part of the book looks at technological advances in the areas of fishing, aquaculture, deep sea hydrothermal vents and mineral resources, and the significant challenges these present for national and international rule-makers. The second part of the work charts new trends in the protection of the marine environment, particularly in the establishment of marine protected areas. While recognising that most environmental problems require a global approach, it emphasises the importance of international regional co-operation. The final part concerns the application of new legal concepts to the conservation of marine resources, including sustainable development, the precautionary principle, the common heritage of mankind and the common concern of humanity.

This book is based on the revised and updated papers presented at the Conference on New Technologies and Law of the Marine Environment organised in Lisbon for World EXPO 1998 by the European Council of Environmental Law. It will be of great interest to lawyers researching or practising in environmental law and law of the sea, and to environmental scientists.