Why have lawmakers paid so little attention to the degradation of the sea?

Clearly a new policy framework is needed to protect marine biodiversity.

Preserving stability and function within ecosystems, which is crucial to regeneration of fish populations, should be a key element in next-generation policies.

Incremental change will not suffice, however. We need a leap in policymaking.

Out of sight out of mind.

Special Interests affect our laws by pouring money into the pockets of politicians and campaigns of political candidates.

The lack of cogent jurisdiction is perhaps most problematic with regard to management of water pollution.

Water quality from the coastline to far out at sea is degraded by a host of inland sources.

Land-based nutrients and pollutants wash down into the sea in rivers, groundwater, and over land.

Regulations are needed to control the numerous and diffuse land based ssources pollution, including industrial effluents, farm fertilizers, lawn pesticides, sediment, street oils, and road salts.