Search

Begin New Search Political Geography Oceans Publication Year within 1 Year

1. The hunt for Red October in warmer oceans: Climate change and anti-submarine warfare

Author:
Andrea Gilli and Mauro Gilli
Publication Date:
03-2025
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
NATO Defense College
Abstract:
Security scholars have traditionally looked at climate change from the perspective of civil wars, migrations and pervasive instability. NATO has recently started looking at climate change as one of the main threatmultipliers characterizing the current international system. Climate change can have a real impact on interstate rivalry and strategic competition, specifi cally by aff ecting water temperatures, currents and salinity, and thus sonar performance – a key asset in submarine and
Topic:
NATO, Climate Change, Armed Forces, Strategic Competition, Submarines, and Warfare
Political Geography:
Oceans

2. Plastic Pollution in Seas and Oceans: Challenges and Responses

Author:
Konstantinos Topouzelis and Ifigeneia Tsakalogianni
Publication Date:
09-2024
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP)
Abstract:
Plastic pollution is a serious global problem, with significant environmental, health and economic impacts. The need for global action is imperative, as plastic pollution affects all levels of society and ecosystems. The lack of strict regulations on the production, use and disposal of plastics, as well as weak enforcement and imposition of penalties are some of the main reasons for the increase in plastic pollution. Implementing policies to promote the circular economy is critical, with the aim of reducing plastic waste generation and increasing recycling. The planning of the response to the problem requires the creation of a mechanism for observing and tracing plastics, i.e. recording the current situation in a scientific and indisputable way. Cost-effective solutions, such as incentives to use biodegradable materials and the development of innovative recycling methods, need to be promoted. Enhancing environmental education and public awareness is essential to change behaviors and promote sustainable consumption practices. International cooperation is needed to create common standards and rules and cooperative inspection and enforcement mechanisms, as plastic pollution is a cross-border issue. Governments must support research and development of new technologies to reduce plastic litter and clean up the oceans. Imposing taxes and fees on plastic products will reduce their use and fund initiatives to protect the environment. A flexible, adaptive institutional framework, stricter enforcement of laws by strengthening administrative capacity to enforce rules and imposing penalties with the cooperation of all actors involved are needed, with the common goal of reducing the “plastic footprint”.
Topic:
Environment, Pollution, and Plastic
Political Geography:
Oceans