Sea change

In Sea Change, Sylvia Earle makes it clear that we are currently in a time of pivotal significance regarding the decisions we make for the world's oceans. How we treat them now will determine the future health of the planet - and of our species.

To illustrate the current state of the seas, Earle takes readers on a wide-ranging journey, from the massive oil spills in Prince William Sound and the Persian Gulf, to whaling stations and toxic waste sites, to the Tokyo Fish Market, where thousands of tons of fish are sold daily. With these and other visions in mind, she concludes her book by offering a blueprint for change.

Earle gives real suggestions for guaranteeing the survival of the seas, including the establishment of marine sanctuaries and protected areas, and the development of global policies recognizing the interdependence of life and the need for nations to agree on measures to protect and maintain the oceans.

Implementing these changes, says Earle, is crucial for our survival. She adds that while "no one really knows what the consequences will be of ocean dumping, overfishing, oil spills, whale kills, and thousands of other thoughtless actions that chip and gouge away at the healthy functioning of ocean systems, this much is certain: We have the power to damage the sea, but no sure way to heal the harm.".

Sylvia Earle is one of the world's leading advocates for safeguarding the earth's largest - and most vital - natural resource. Her adventures, and her sense of wonder and excitement about the living underwater world, open our eyes to the magnitude of our ignorance about the ocean and inspire us to protect it and respect its role in our lives.