Page 73 - MDSL Final

NEW DYNAMICS OF THE INDIAN OCEAN REGION
degradation and over exploitation of ocean resources affect the
development and the future of the regional countries. Severe weather
changes and rising of sea level will adversely affect the natural cycles of
the environment and its inhabitants. Rising of sea temperature is also
one of the key environmental issues in the region. These factors could
cause a considerable damage to the environment and to the society.

Climate change is likely to influence maritime environment in the IOR.
The growing unpredictability in climate and weather patterns is having
a disproportionate impact over the IOR. Not only is the region predicted
to bear the brunt of future climatic changes, it is also likely to face
strong constraints in meeting the coming threats. It has been estimated
that Indian Ocean states are responsible for approximately 40 percent
of global greenhouse gas emissions where all the world community is
highly concerned about in the present day’s context.

Environmental degradation and over exploitation of ocean resources
directly affect the economy of a country. Degradation of coastal and
marine environment endangers natural and vital ecosystems. This
leads to the loss of marine resources. Perhaps fisheries are the most
famous natural resource of the ocean. Most economies of the region
heavily depend on the fishing industry. The increase of environmental
degradation in the ocean, has threatened the marine life including the
edible fishes enormously. On the other hand, the high demand for fish
has led to the over exploitation the resource.

The heavy traffic that prevails in the maritime trade routes can be
regarded as another serious issue. Most of the ships that travel through
the region carry oil and hazardous material. In case of an accident, an oil
spill is inevitable and this could bring destructive effects to the marine
environment. Therefore, lot of assets and commitments are required to
maintain the safety of marine environment.

To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea 55