Developments in Australian and Canadian Marine Environmental Management

Anthropogenic impacts contribute to the global deterioration in the quality and productivity of marine and coastal environments. These impacts include over-exploitation, physical alteration, marine pollution, introduction of alien species and global atmospheric change. Marine environmental management (MEM) represents a set of interdisciplinary tools used by planners and managers to promote and enhance marine and coastal biological diversity. The components of marine environmental management include resource allocation, impact minimisation, pollution control and the provision of protected areas. This Chapter will examine how Australia and Canada have supported specific MEM activities including: environmental protection, conservation and planning; state of the environment reporting; protected areas; education and community networks; and information systems. Developments in ecologically sustainable development and coastal zone management will also be addressed. The conclusion will compare and contrast key elements of Australian and Canadian marine environmental management.