State of the marine environment in the South Pacific

Reports on the state of the marine environment in the South Pacific with particular focus on the period from 1980 to 1989. It includes the ocean and coastal areas associated with states belonging to the South Pacific Regional Environmental Programme (SPREP) of UNEP. Provides background information on characteristics of the region. Presents the levels and distribution of marine contaminants. Examines the effect of human activities in the sea including waste disposal, development of coastal areas, marine transportation and the exploitation of living and non-living marine resources. Discusses the effects of biological processes on the sea and proposes prevention and control strategies. Also presents trends and forecasts for the region