Spatial Technology Based Governance for Enforcement of International Environmental Law in Marine Ecosystem Protection

Marine ecosystems are the biggest ecosystems, which cover around 71% of Earth's surface and contain 97% of out planet's water. Water law usually has the objective of restoring and maintaining the chemical, physical and biological integrity of inland and marine waters. It may regulate the discharge of pollutants, activities affecting wetlands, accidental spills, and the use and disposal of wastes. UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) contains and codifies the principles respecting the protection and preservation of the marine environment in all maritime zones. Spatial governance (based on GIS, RS & GPS) is instrumental in shaping and management of marine ecosystems. By identifying the risks and vulnerabilities, geo spatial data can aid in increasing the adaptability and resilience of the affected. Use of GPS surveying and satellite imageries for data capture and GIS for interpretation, analysis and modeling of spatial and referenced non-spatial data have contributed to the process of planning.