Laws And Agreements Governing Oceans

Question 1

Why is China building islands in the South China Sea?

Answer 1

• 11 billion barrels of oil
• 30% global shipping trade
• 190 trillion feet² of natural gas
• 10% world fisheries

Question 2

Give a brief timeline of UNCLOS

Answer 2

• Pre 1939: Oceans subject to ‘freedom of sea’
• 1940s to 50s: Toll taken on fish stocks
• 1960s to 70s: More countries claim larger areas of water (Geopolitical conflict in North Sea)
• 1973 to 1982: UN develop UNCLOS to tackle marine pollution, overfishing and competition territorial claims

Question 3

What are Economic Exclusivity Zones?

Answer 3

• Area of water extending 200 nautical miles from state’s shoreline
• Legal ownership of biotic and abiotic resources within EEZ