Publisher's Synopsis
This series investigates the world above and below the surface of the seas and oceans, explaining how they were formed, why they are constantly in motion, their importance as a source of food, minerals and energy, and the latest developments in underwater exploration. Also described are some of the thousands of fascinating marine plants and animals and the urgent need for international cooperation in finding ways to protect them from the devastating effects of overfishing and pollution.;This book describes the many different ways in which humans exploit the sea. The author discusses ideas for improving and conserving what is probably the most important life-preserving element on our planet.;The sea's many resources have been exploited by humans throughout the centuries. For thousands of years fish and sea birds have provided food, and certain mammals have been hunted for their meat, hides, tusks and oil. The sea provides a highway, nowadays enabling mammoth ships to carry huge cargoes between continents. The sea also provides valuable minerals.;Until quite recently it was believed that the sea's vastness could easily absorb the world's wastes without damage to its ecosystem. But as our world becomes ever more industrialized and the human population continues to grow at a phenomenal rate, we are discovering that the sea is in grave danger of over-exploitation, from indiscriminate hunting and fishing, and from pollution. In this book we read about the many dangers threatening the seas on our planet, and about the steps that need to be taken to prevent any further damage.
