The High Seas: Ambition, Power and Greed on the Unclaimed Ocean

The ocean covers seventy percent of the surface of our planet, and two thirds of this lie beyond national borders. Here, industry and economic progress rule and lax enforcement and apathy are the status quo. Out of sight and often out of mind, a battle rages to control, profit from, protect, or obliterate the world's largest, wildest commons.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2024
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

The Irish Times bestseller is a powerful reportage that delves into the intricate details of the devastating impact we have had on the world's oceans and the diverse life forms inhabiting them. The Sunday Times describes it as a comprehensive investigation that sheds light on the staggering damage we have caused to this vital ecosystem.

Observer emphasizes the importance of this exploration, calling it a "vital, fascinating, deeply researched" examination of Earth's last wilderness. The author describes the book as "shocking and starkly illuminating," a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the state of our oceans.

Gaia Vince, in her review, praises the book for its comprehensive coverage of the ocean, which accounts for seventy percent of the Earth's surface and two-thirds of its waters. She highlights the rich and diverse environments found in these waters, but also notes the widespread exploitation that occurs within them. Vince argues that industry and economic progress dominate, with lax enforcement and apathy being the norm. The book sheds light on the battle that rages to control, profit from, protect, or obliterate the world's largest and wildest commons, often out of sight and out of mind.

The author, Heffernan, embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind deeply exploitative fishing practices, investigate the potentially devastating impact of deep-sea mining, and challenge the Silicon-valley interventionists whose solutions to climate change are often deemed optimistic, radically irresponsible, or both. The result is a forceful and deeply researched manifesto that calls for the protection and preservation of this final frontier—the last vestiges of wilderness on Earth.

The book explores the various threats posed to the ocean, including overfishing, pollution, and climate change. It sheds light on the practices that contribute to these issues, such as illegal fishing, destructive fishing methods, and the mining of valuable minerals in the deep sea. Heffernan also takes a critical look at the interventions proposed by Silicon-valley interventionists, questioning their effectiveness and the potential harm they may cause to the environment.

One of the key themes of the book is the need for international cooperation in addressing the challenges facing the ocean. Heffernan argues that the ocean is a global commons, owned by all nations and no nation simultaneously. However, the current system of governance allows for lax enforcement and apathy, leading to exploitation and degradation. The author calls for a shift towards a more sustainable and equitable approach to ocean management, where nations work together to protect and preserve this vital resource.

The book also highlights the importance of individual actions and choices in preserving the ocean. Heffernan encourages readers to reduce their consumption of seafood, support sustainable fishing practices, and advocate for policies that protect marine ecosystems. He emphasizes the need for a collective effort to address the challenges facing the ocean, as it is a shared responsibility that affects us all.

In conclusion, The Last Ocean is a powerful and deeply researched manifesto that calls for the protection and preservation of the world's oceans. The book sheds light on the devastating impact we have had on this vital ecosystem and highlights the need for international cooperation and individual actions to address the challenges facing it. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the state of our oceans and the importance of preserving this precious resource for future generations.

Weight: 562g
Dimension: 242 x 165 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788163576
Edition number: Main