Review on how to preserve space for the future uses of the seas

We, as a population, are making more use of our marine space and resources than ever before. The intensity and diversity of interest in sea space has accelerated dramatically in the last two decades with the Blue Economy continuing to develop alongside our need for food, energy, transportation and recreation from our seas.1 At the same time, challenges are emerging because of climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and overuse/degradation of the environment by activities in the marine and coastal areas. Whilst the cumulative effects of these impacts exacerbate challenges relating to food security and livelihoods, the need to produce food, provide transport routes and communication provide opportunities for economic development. Though, they often bring with them additional challenges, particularly to the social and environmental pillars of the sustainable development paradigm.