Reflections on marine science contributions to sustainable development

Some aspects of the role of marine research for sustainable development are considered. It is argued that science is a necessary part of, or requirement for, sustainable development since sustainable development requires that the state of a dynamic, interactive system can be reasonably accurately forecast. This requires that science be given the right status and role in development, management, planning and decision making. Aspects of the role of the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) are discussed. The implications of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) for the role of marine research and systematic ocean observations are presented and related issues identified. Some specific questions on where research can help provide the answers are identified and present trends are analyzed. tegy for ocean studies, observations and related training based on the role of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission is presented, and some experiences are considered.