Glossary

Deutsch: Region / Español: Región / Português: Região / Français: Région / Italiano: Regione

Region is a term broadly used to refer to a specific area or segment of space, which is identified by distinctive characteristics, boundaries, or purposes. In the maritime context, a region is typically defined by geographical, administrative, or legal criteria, and it plays a critical role in the management, utilization, and conservation of marine resources.

Description

In the maritime context, the concept of region is essential for a myriad of activities ranging from navigation to environmental management. Maritime regions are often delineated based on a combination of factors including ecological characteristics, oceanographic features, and political boundaries. These regions can vary widely in scale, from small coastal areas to large sections of oceanic water.

Maritime regions are critical for the implementation of maritime law, the planning of resource exploitation, the management of marine ecosystems, and the regulation of shipping routes. They are frequently used to coordinate search and rescue operations, to manage fishing zones, and to enforce maritime security protocols. The designation of maritime regions can also facilitate international cooperation by providing a framework for agreements on shared waters, helping to resolve or prevent conflicts over marine resources.

Application Areas

Maritime regions find their application in various areas such as:

• Environmental Management: Establishing protected marine areas to conserve biodiversity.
• Resource Management: Identifying zones for sustainable fishing or oil and gas extraction.
• Navigation and Safety: Defining shipping lanes and routes to enhance safety and efficiency in marine navigation.
• Legal and Political: Assisting in the enforcement of national and international maritime laws and agreements.

Well-Known Examples

Some well-known maritime regions include:

• The Baltic Sea Region: Known for its unique environmental management collaborations among bordering nations.
• The Gulf of Mexico: A major hub for the U.S. oil and gas industry, with extensive maritime boundaries shared with Mexico and Cuba.
• The Coral Triangle: Located in the western Pacific Ocean, it is recognized for its astounding marine biodiversity and is a critical region for global marine conservation efforts.

Treatment and Risks

In maritime management, defining regions carries both benefits and risks. Properly designated maritime regions help in managing resources sustainably and in mitigating environmental impacts. However, if these regions are poorly defined or managed, it can lead to conflicts over resources, environmental degradation, and disputes regarding jurisdiction and rights. Effective management and clear legal frameworks are essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the health of marine ecosystems and the sustainable use of maritime resources.

Similar Terms

In the context of maritime affairs, similar terms that are often discussed include:

• Marine Zones: Specifically refer to parts of the ocean designated for particular uses, like military or fishing zones.
• Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs): A sea zone over which a state has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources.
• Continental Shelf: Areas of seabeds around a large landmass where shallow waters are found, important for legal and resource management purposes.

Weblinks

• environment-database.eu: 'Region' in the glossary of the environment-database.eu

Summary

In the maritime context, a region is a defined area used for managing and regulating various aspects of marine environments and activities. These regions are essential for navigation, resource management, environmental conservation, and legal governance, playing a pivotal role in the sustainable and orderly use of the world's oceans.

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