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Problems:
1.) Cultural Issues and the conflict of Environment and Development
Fishing has been a longstanding and time-honored part of the American cultural experience. Any measure that would increase fishing restrictions in the short term would likely face significant public opposition, especially among fishermen.
Additionally, other stakeholders, such as minerals interested have historically opposed the establishment of MPAs. For example, the establishment of the Flower Garden Banks NMS was delayed by almost a decade and a half by concerted oil industry lobbying against the sanctuary (Flower Garden Banks, 2007).
2.) Setting National Priorities
Given current affairs, environmental protection and science are not among top national priorities for either the government or the populace. This limits the funding available for scientific activities, and that available for the establishment of new MPAs.
3.) Public Awareness
In general, the American public does not have high ocean literacy, a strong awareness of ocean related issues, or high general environmental awareness. This interferes with (FINISH THIS SOMEBODY!!!)
Suggestions:
1.) Streamline the process for establishing new Marine Protected Areas
Currently, the process for new MPAs has difficult and requires multiple levels of bureaucracy, vetting, and scoping. In general, less emphasis should be placed on establishing the effectiveness of any given proposal to all other management strategies. Instead, given the scientific consensus on the effectiveness, more effort should be placed into where to implement as opposed to whether to implement MPAs.
2.) Expand the National Marine Sanctuaries system
China
Background:
-A developing country with long coastline (18,000 km) and large fish demand.
-Freshwater resources rank 6th in the world, but the resources per capita is only one fourth of the world's average due to large population. (Chinese Information Office 1998)
-GDP: $10.17 trillion (2006 est.)
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