International Law of Underwater Cultural Heritage: Understanding the Challenges

This book explores the international legal protection of historically significant wrecks, particularly focusing on the environmental hazards they may pose. The convergence of Heritage Law, the Law of the Sea, and International Environmental Law is an important development in global governance strategies for the 21st century, particularly in the regulation of marine pollution and the protection of underwater cultural heritage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 710 pages
Publication date: 03 January 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into three distinct areas of International Law, namely Environmental, Heritage, and Ocean Law, with a primary focus on the international legal protection of historically significant wrecks. By bringing these three fields together, the book aims to address the environmental hazards posed by these wrecks, particularly in light of their significance to human history and culture. The convergence of Heritage Law and the Law of the Sea with International Environmental Law represents a significant development in international governance strategies for the twenty-first century, particularly in the realm of ocean and underwater cultural heritage protection.

The 1982 Law of the Sea, as well as institutions like the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), play pivotal roles in governance strategies that involve the regulation of marine pollution and the preservation of historic shipwrecks. These connections enable a coordinated and effective approach to managing these resources, ensuring their protection and preservation for future generations.

The book explores the legal frameworks and principles that govern the protection of historically significant wrecks, including the International Convention for the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (UNESCO Convention) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). It also examines the challenges and opportunities associated with preserving these wrecks, including the impact of climate change, commercial interests, and cultural heritage values.

Furthermore, the book discusses the role of national and international institutions in the protection of historic shipwrecks, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). It highlights the importance of collaboration and cooperation among these institutions to ensure effective implementation of international legal standards and the sustainable management of marine resources.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of International Law by exploring the complex interplay between Environmental, Heritage, and Ocean Law in the protection of historically significant wrecks. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks, principles, and challenges involved in preserving these valuable resources for future generations. By highlighting the importance of collaboration and cooperation among national and international institutions, the book underscores the need for a coordinated and sustainable approach to managing marine pollution and historic shipwrecks in the twenty-first century.

Weight: 1256g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031105678
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022