Research on the role of the ocean in global climate change: The effect of extended jurisdiction

Abstract

The 1982 United Nations Treaty on the Law of the Sea grants authority over marine research in adjacent waters to the coastal state. Interpretation and application of this treaty will play a large role in determining the success of scientific investigation into global environmental processes and the significance of human effects on these systems. Currently, climate studies in particular require a much broader knowledge of the world ocean system than is now available. The World Climate Research Program, organized transnationally, has to date been successful in implementing global ocean studies within and across the jurisdictional waters of most states, largely because of a common interest in the research results. However, should the results lead to the prediction of differential regional response to anthropogenic alteration of climate patterns, a greater politicization of research may ensue. A stricter application of treaty provisions covering the granting of consent to do research could impact the priorities and direction of further studies. Early awareness of the legal issues facing global marine research could be directed toward effort to preclude conflicts over access and to promote the conduct of research based solely on scientific priorities.

Keywords:

• International Law of the Sea
• marine scientific research
• global climate change
• extended jurisdiction
• exclusive economic zone