Abstract
Coastal ecosystems and the great biological diversity they support are threatened the world over. Being the downstream recipients of degrading impacts caused by poor land use practices, and simultaneously coming under increasing pressure to supply natural resources and space to accommodate human needs, the global ocean is affected both directly and indirectly. Multiple and cumulative threats have already undermined the functioning of many marine systems; unless we change our attitudes towards and use of the seas, a marine biodiversity crisis is inevitable.
Dr. Tundi Agardy is Senior Director for Marine Programs at Conservation International, a Washington, DC-based non-governmental organization dedicated to conserving global biodiversity.
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