Improving Sustainability at General Electric (GE)

Improving Sustainability at General Electric (GE)INTRODUCTIONThe General Electric teleph angiotensin converting enzymer (GE from henceforth) is an American Multinational Conglomerate founded in 1892 by the merger of American Inventor Thomas Alva Edisons Edison General Electric Company and Thomson-Houston Electric Company .GE shortly operates at the same time in atomic number 23 diverse assembly line sectors namely Energy (e.g. oil and gas), Media (as NBC Universal in arenas much(prenominal) as cable and film), Technology foot (e.g. Aviation and Healthcare), Home and Business Solutions(Appliances and Intelligent platforms) and Finance ( as GE Capital involved in both commercial and consumer finance). GE shortly has businesses in about 160 countries and about 300,000 employees somewhat the globe. The participations headquarters is located at 3135 Easton Turnpike, Fairfield, Connecticut, USA.As a global conglomerate GE has had a controversial taradiddle with regards to air an d pissing pollution dating back to the late 1940s and had always been a target of criticism from public officials and environmentalists in the US. However, things took a warp for the better when on the 9th of May, 2005 GEs CEO Jeffery Immelt announced the companys new environmental enterprisingness called Ecomagination. In Mr Immelts words, the congeal of the initiative is to focussing our unique energy, technology, manu pointuring, and infrastructure capabilities to develop tomorrows solutions much(prenominal)(prenominal) as solar energy, hybrid locomotives, fuel cells, lower-emission aircraft engines, lighter and stronger materials, efficient lighting, and wet purification technology. As can be observed, the adoption of such an initiative was genuinely bold especially inclined the large size of GE and it numerous businesses around the globe nevertheless, the initiative was implemented across the entire company and is currently in its sixth year of operation.As Ecomagina tion is GEs main sustainability programme, the documents retrieved from the company and used for the purpose of this work give are in the form of Annual Sustainability Reports which are publicly ready(prenominal) at the Ecomagination website (http//ge.ecomagination.com/report.html). The reports are currently available for the historic period 2005 to 2009 in PDF format and can be downloaded and viewed by the public.IMPROVING SUSTAINABILITY AT GEAs mentioned in the introduction, GE has sought to quell criticism of its environmental records and advance its sustainability by implementing a company-wide sustainability initiative launched in 2005 called Ecomagination. The initiative encompasses an array of changes and commitments forming a broad schema that is implemented with the aim of not just making GE a global leader in terms of sustainability, but also with the accompanying impression that commitment towards sustainable practices, products and services testament give GE a compe titive advantage and is therefore worth the causal agent and any initial costs.In nightspot to achieve its objects of becoming a more than sustainable company and to increase their overall sustainability performance, GE through and through Ecomagination has committed to taking the following cover steps slenderize water use and purify water reuse As of 2006 GEs freshwater was appendling about 15.3 billion gallons and so the company announced its goal of trimming consumption by 20% by 2012. By 2009, GEs water system was down 30% to about10.7 billion gallons which further prompted the company to set a modified goal of aiming for a 25% reduction by 2015. One way GE was able to reduce its freshwater consumption was by mete outing Kaizen assail water reduction events at three of the largest consumption sitesaccording to GE reports, the Kaizan approach employs multi-functional teams tasked with spending a concentrated week studying water usage at a given facility with the ultim ate aim of developing water reduction projects.Double investments in clean Research and Development At the launch of Ecomagination, GE committed to increase its RD spending on clean technologies from about $700 million in 2004 to $1.5 billion by 2010 by the end of 2009 a total of about $5 billion had been spent on RD for clean technologies which according to GE reports generated about $70 billion in revenue convey to the new technologies and products from the Ecomagination initiative. In light of this, in 2010 GE announced a commitment to invest an additional $10 billion in Ecomagination by 2015.Reduce Greenhouse Emissions and improve Energy efficiency of its current trading operations At the launch of Ecomagination, setting 2004 as a baseline GE made a commitment to cut 1% of its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2012 and reduce the intensity of its GHG emissions 30% by 2008. As of 2011, GE has been successful in cutting GHG emission by 22% and also reduced the intensity of its G HG emissions by 39%. According to GE reports, overall energy intensity has improved by 34% and the company hopes to improve by up to 50% for all its operations by 2015.Increase revenues from Ecomagination products In 2009, revenues from Ecomagination grew by 6% to about $18 billion despite the financial crisis. GE projects Ecomagination revenues to continue to grow at double the rate of total GE revenues in the next five years and eventually throwaway for a larger proportion of total sales.Communicate with the public GE has resorted to keeping communication channels open and also piquant more with the public regarding Ecomagination efforts. For example, as part of its $200 million innovation experiment, the company announced the Ecomagination Challenge running from January to March which encourages entrepreneurs, students etc. to present ideas for approaching clean energy technologies with the top 5 entries to be awarded $100,000 each.GEs STAGE OF CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITYEmployin g the concept of the Six forms of corporate sustainability as mentioned by Dexter Dunphy and Jodie Benveniste in their book entitled Sustainability The Corporate Challenge of the 21st Century, one would place GE in the strategic sustainability. Specifically, GE is a HS5 in terms of humanity Sustainability and simultaneously an ES5 in terms of Ecological sustainability.The justification for place GE in the HS5 category of the strategic sustainability phase has to do with the fact that as a company GE has a well-documented history of human development and training programmes that is part of the GE kitchen-gardening. At the centre of this is John F Welch (Jack) Leadership Development midpoint established in 1956 and named after Jack Welch the famous ex-CEO of GE who believed in the principle that a company was only as good as it people. soon GE invests about $1 billion annually on training and education programmes for GE employees. Now, it could be argued that given GEs long stand ing commitment to Human sustainability, one should place them as a HS6 (Ideological Commitment Phase) this argument is debateable and for the purpose of this workbook, GE is placed as a HS5 because even though it scores juicy on development and training, its policies are very strict and its culture very competitive which has led to the consistent termination of the underperforming 20% of its workforce. As a issuance one could argue that although GE invests much in its people, its culture does not put too much effort in aiding underperformers and simply cuts them off.On the early(a) hand, in terms of Ecological sustainability GE is labelled as an ES5 thanks in large part to the launch of its Ecomgination initiative in 2005. Given the fact that GE is over a century old, its decision to make sustainability in 2005 was bold and historic one and going into the future, one can expect the initiative to be implement across all its business around the globe due in large part to its very s trong culture. Put in perspective, as a company GE has progressed through a long phase of active antagonism in its early years, through the indifference phase for most of the 80s and 90s before finally making a strong commitment in 2005 with the announcement of Ecomagination. Recently GE has been very active in the area of sustainability from cutting emissions and water usage to investing in clean technologies and seeking ideas from the public, the company has been ranked on various indices as one of the top five sustainability leaders over the past five years. Also the argument could be made that GE should be labelled as an ES6, while true, the fact is that given the large size of a company like GE and its numerous businesses in diverse sectors across the globe its sustainability polices will need time to be fully implemented and assessed.GEs COVERAGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSIONSCLIMATE CHANGE Taking into account the large size and global reach of GE as a company, climate change can be highlighted as a key issue that poses a challenge for GE moving forward. In light of this fact, as part of the Ecomagination initiative GE has been able to successfully cut its GHG emissions by 22% and also reduced its GHG intensity by 39%, using 2004 as a baseline. Figure 1 below shows the distribution of operational GHG emissions by GE in 2009 according to type Source GE GHG InventoryAs observed 85% of their emissions are made up of CO2 while 13% are consist of HFCs which are usually emitted during foam-blowing operations at its refrigerator manufacturing plants, in total they accounted for approximately 98% of GEs emissions in that year.In order to tackle the problem GE has established a GHG inventory modelled after the military personnel Resources Institute/World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WRI/WBCSD) communications protocol. Going by this inventory GE employs the control approach which accounts for GHG emissions over which the Company has control the prot ocol is subdivided into three scope categories namely Scope 1 which accounts for direct GHG emissions from sources under the control of the reporting company, Scope 2 which accounts for indirect emissions imported or purchased electricity, water or steam and finally Scope 3 which accounts for indirect emissions which result from a reporting companys activities but occur from sources belonging to another entity.WATER As was highlighted earlier on, from 2006 to 2009 GE successfully cut its freshwater consumption by 30% and is on pace for an additional 25% reduction by 2015. . This was accomplishable through the installation of GE sensing ultrasonic arise meters which was installed at the largest water consumption site. The sensors provided a more accurate measure of the total flow from 2006 and led to the discovery of an overestimation of about 2.2 billion gallons from the figures previously calculated. In addition, more concrete steps were taken to address water usage such as the r eplacement of single-speed pumps with new variable frequency drive pumps, improved valve operation and as well as the previously mentioned the running of Kaizen blitz water reduction events to name a few. In addition, GE currently has a project underway aimed at reducing its global water usage by about 5%, the project is running at one of its US plants and employs the use of GE water process technology equipment in the form of nanofilteration and ultrafilteration technologies to reuse and reuse water.In addition, GE has also established a water inventory protocol based on the previously mentioned WRI/WBCSD GHG protocol. As a sustain of this, GE employs a control approach and accounts for freshwater use at so called criteria sites. The criteria sites are simply any GE sites that use a total of 15 million gallons or more annually from a 2006 baseline and subsequently.Quality assurance is another measure by GE that has been implemented with the aim of increasing the accuracy of the w ater use inventory and eliminating and accounting for errors.WASTE MANAGEMENT In regards to ware management GE gathers data for all of its operations that generate more than 100 metric tons of hazardous waste and/or more than 500 metric tons of non-hazardous industrial waste. Currently there are three broad schemes put in place to specifically address waste management.The first is the Waste Site Qualification Programme (WSQP) which considers that waste generated by GE is taken through recycling, treatment and disposal facilities that meet GE rigorous environmental and safety standards. The standards require waste management sites to improve their facilities beyond set local standards in order to gain GE approval because GE sites can only use GE approved facilities disregardless of the amount of waste they generate. As of 2009 the WSQP programme has been expanded to about 500 GE manufacturing locations globally.Next in GEs waste management scheme are reportable spills through whic h GE tracks any spill on or from a site that is reportable to regulatory authorities. As of 2005 GE divided the spills into spills/releases to water such as lake, ocean etc. and spills/releases not to water consisting of any other kind(s) of spills.Lastly, GE has an operational leaders Environment, Health, Safety (EHS) training manuals that provide information on how to identify waste reduction opportunities through the use of lean manufacturing technologies.GEs CONTRIBUTION TO WIDER ECONOMIC PERFORMANCEWAGES AND BENEFITS With GE currently operating in more than 100 countries around the globe, the company is very active in terms of job creation and employee development. As shown in Figure 2 below, taking into account its total global workforce of about 300,000 people in 2009, about 154,000 people were non-US showing its interest in hiring and developing local people.Source GE MetricsIn addition, GE provides benefits to it employees beyond their normal salaries that is aimed at ensur ing heir financial security. It provides a variety of benefit packages to eligible employees across its various businesses around the globe such as retirement and health benefit plans that cover employees and their families. According to GE data, it currently has an assortment of pension plans that provide cover for jam to 635,000 employees and retirees around the globe.SHARE VALUE AND RETURN ON INVESTMENT An examination of GEs stock price from the 1st April, 2010 to 1st April, 2011 shows an increase of about a $2 rise from $18.33 to $20.34 signifying an increase in value for shareholders in spite of the recent recession. Also GEs financial statement at the fiscal year ending 2010 shows the company made a gross profit of over $11 billion, once again confirming the fact that it is providing investors a significant return on their investments. establishment TAXES AND FEES In addition, GE also paid out close to $1 billion in income taxes to the government.USE OF LOCAL SUPPLIERS AND SU PPORT FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES In an effort to enhance its supply chain management, GE launched a Supplier Diversity Programme in 1974. The aim of the programme is to engage diverse groups of suppliers in order to enhance economic opportunity according to the GE the core components of the programme are National Minority Development Council, Womens Business Enterprise National Council and a host of state and local development councils.Source GE MetricsFigure 3 above shows a 2009 distribution of GEs assessments of potential suppliers by region, its conclusions and the categories of its finding based on the issue(s) of concern. According to reports, GE employs and eyes always open approach in terms of assessment by investigating concerns raised by external sources such as the press reports and pursuing corrective measures immediately.SUSTAINABLE OF PRODUCTS/SERVICESAccording to GEs 2009 Ecomagination report, revenues grew by about 6% to $18 billion discretion of products launched under t he initiative. GE currently uses an Ecomagination Product Review (EPR) to determine not only which offerings are included in the Ecomagination portfolio but also to ensure that the products improve customers value proposition and environmental performance. In addition, GE has developed a process for what it terms New Product Introduction (NPI) which focuses on consumer needs and views environmental performance as a key customer priority. This exemplifies GEs cradle to grave approach of being a responsible corporate citizen by not focus solely on commercial factors but also environmental and health impacts of their products and services.As a global conglomerate, GE is involved in the provision of a diverse set of products and services from appliances and aviation to healthcare and financial services.As Figure 4 shows below, most of GEs revenue is derived from offering financial services through GE Capital and as such most people even label it as a financial company with a manufactur ing arm.Source GE MetricsThe manufacturing arm in the form of the provision of technology infrastructure is another of GEs significant business units and perhaps the most well-known.Taking these facts into account, this workbook will focus briefly on how these two major GE businesses (GE Capital and GE Technology Infrastructure) and their products could be made more sustainable.GE Capital As mentioned earlier, GE has invested significantly in cleaner technologies and is also involved in financing and providing loans to support external businesses with a focus on innovative and sustainable practices and products. In an effort to make GE Capital more sustainable, GE could gradually consider putting more resources in telecommuting by doing this there will be less need for large GE buildings and offices around the globe. In addition, it could lead the way by installing most of the innovative technologies derived from its Ecomagination initiative at its GE Capital offices.GE Technology I nfrastructure As GEs major manufacturing arm has made significant gains especially by focusing on the merchandise of more sustainable products via the Ecomagination initiative. As a global manufacturing force with most of its products available in a range of places such homes, airports, banks and schools to name a few, GE has a great avenue to influence a global shift to the use of more sustainable products. GE can also improve this business unit, by making a conscious effort to minimize emission, water usage and improving waste management. There is no doubt that this is probably the fraction with the most sustainability concern due to the nature of the operations involved in the production process, as such GE would do well to also ask for external evaluators to assess its plants and provide more sustainable solutions to enhance its production process.ETHICAL CULTUREGE is well known for its strong company culture and its integrity policy is laid out in a document entitled the sp irit and the letter which all employees are required to pledge to and sign. This is go with by an ombudsman process that allows employees to raise and report ethical concerns with impunity.GEs integrity policy covers the following parties Directors, Employees, Officers, Subsidiaries and Controlled Affiliates, Non- Controlled Affiliates and all Third parties representing GE.Specifically, all employees are evaluate to understand GEs policies and are obligated to raise any concerns they have while leaders are obligated to prevent compliance issues from arising, detect them when and if they arise and respond to them expediently.From close examination, one can observe that GEs integrity policy is quite plain and easy to understand, it is specific and detailed as it lays out the followingThe parties bound to the policy.What is expected of the parties in terms of compliance and their obligationsAn exhaustible list of various channels and steps to be taken in terms of reporting concerns.I t explains how and when the process will be carried outThe penalties involved when the policy is violatedAnd most importantly a bold statement that prohibits and punishes any form of retaliation against those who raise concerns.The integrity policy covers a broad range of parties and lays out in details how those parties are to be treated and how related ethical concerns are to be treated. A shooter of this is a followsEmployees With regards to its staff, their rights, obligations and expected conduct is laid out at the beginning of the integrity policy. For instance, employees are encouraged to raise concerns early, they also have the right to confront anonymous but can choose not to, their confidentiality is respected and most of it is transcendly emphasized that retaliation is command.Customers Regarding the treatment of customers, all forms of improper payments are prohibited and guidelines are provide on how to deal with various potential scenarios however, reasonable expen ditures and gifts are acceptable but subject to corporate guidelines.Suppliers GEs suppliers are also expected to abide by lawful guidelines such as fair work practices and quality standards. Overall, they are expected to abide by national laws and regulations and also ensure the safeguarding of confidential information.Wider Community GEs integrity policy also provides guidelines for dealing with governments, preventing money laundering, safeguarding clients privacy, ensuring fair competition and dealing with local communities. The policy is very specific and provides clear expectations and steps on how to deal with the aforementioned members of the wider community.It is evident that GE has parlayed it long experience in doing business around the globe into creating an ethical code of conduct that is unambiguous and rigorous in addressing all stakeholders in its businesses around the world.KNOWLEDGE REVIEW FEATURES OF EFFECTIVE SUSTAINABILITY MONITORING SYSTEMSThe issue of sustaina bility has become more serious and extremely debated in recent times, given the large amount of companies that claim to be committed to sustainable practices and products, this section will provide an annotated bibliography that reviews the features of effective sustainability monitoring systems. By doing this, the aim is to gain perspectives from experts in the field of sustainability that lay out what effective sustainability monitoring systems should contain and as such provide use with a set of requirements with which to assess the currents systems being implemented by various companies today.

Media In The Game Of Cricket In India

Media In The Game Of play In IndiaThis essay int terminates to argue that cricket in India has meditated an sickening juxtaposition of national, regional and global identities. By looking at the pre and post independence periods in India and contemporary time, the essay will show that these identities have differed or developed according to national or, regional global developments of the time.2.0 play during British IndiaCricket was first introduced by the British in 1721 when they were playing on a western Indian b to each one (Bose 1990, p.16).The early twenty-four hourss of cricket was a platform for communal identities followe the British divide and rule policy which in any case involved many cacophonous inducing constitutional reforms and legislations ( Stern 2003, p.19). For instance, communalism in the midst of the Indians and Muslims found expression in the Pentagular cricket tournament in 1937 that had groups pitted against each another(prenominal) along their reli gious backgrounds (Bose 1990, p.33.) These tensions persisted beyond the Partition in 1947 which resulted in the creation of Pakistan, as cricket in India acquired patriotic everywheretones above and over the existing communal identities.One might expect that any colonial legacy would be strongly resisted by the colonized. On the contrary, cricket was embraced in India as a national game and this should for the most part be attributed to Gandhis nationalist movement which was principally focussed on non violence and love. He had urged people to accept the British for their groovy deeds and ignore their evils (Bose 1990, p.17). This simply meant that cricket would generally be accepted by the Indians as one of the benign effects of the imperial rule later independence. Hence, despite deepening communalism, cricket at this stage served as a consolation to many Indians who had been subjected to years of systemic oppression.3.0 Post- independence Economic developments and cricket The end of British occupation in India marked the beginning of cricket as a vehicle for pleasure as well as the appropriation of patriotism and consumerism.Under President Nehru, cricket became a tamasha spectacle as he was an active promoter of the game. Unlike the British, the game could not be played politely out front an elite crowd in India. Instead, due to the exuberant nature of the spate, cricket in India had to be celebrated like a festival with popular Indian celebrities like Dilip Kumar attending the games (Bose 1900, p.37, 165, 218). One send word attribute the festivity nature of the game to the economic development in India. Since India adopted economic socialism, a hybridization model among socialism and capitalism, masses from villages started coming to the cities to look for job opportunities (The Parliament of Commonwealth of Australia 1998, p.3). As a result, the value of entertainment took precedence over nationalistic sentiments as cricket became a ejacu late of escapism that awarded these masses to overcome the drudgery and hardships of their daily lives. Furthermore, in the absence of one day examine matches during this period, cricket was played over five days and hence became a definite source of entertainment.Conversely, the appropriation of cricket primarily as an identity for entertainment has resulted in critics be to the higher strata of the Indian society to argue that India has failed to generate a body of cricket literature beyond journalism (Sen 2005, p.95). These critics believe that owing to the rich tradition and history of the game in India, cricket should not be confined indoors the spheres of entertainment but instead be utilize to document the progress and development of the nation. Hence, this criticism exposes the possibility of existing tensions between divers(a) classes in India regarding the general appropriation of cricket as a source of entertainment.3.1 The intervention of media in the game of crick et in India3.2 Assertion of Global/ National IdentitiesIt would be unjust to affirm that the value of entertainment has wholly displaced the nationalistic overtones associated with cricket in India. With membership of the state being a crucial source of national identity, the Indian media has played an integral role in encourage a strong connection between citizens and the nation through the televising of cricket matches involving the Indian national team (Mahajan 2005, p.120).The increasing commercialization of the game ignited patriotism as Indians looked towards cricket to assert their global identity. With the screening of one day test matches on television, many Indians could now bask in glory by watching their nation frequently defeat financial powerhouses and developed nations, like its former colonizer, England, at the game of cricket. Cricket therefore transformed into a barometer of a nations self worth and a tool for global and regional dominance. For instance, in 2001, the controversial dismissal of Sachin Tendulkar for cheating in a game umpired by microphone Dennes resulted in a massive uproar in India as effigies of Dennes were burnt and the Board of Control for Cricket in India threatened to withdraw itself from the International Cricket Council. This exemplifies the interlink between cricket and global identity as Indians regard the accusations of cheating as an insult on their nation (Crick 2007, p.5).The media has besides been instrumental in spreading the game to the remote villages in India. As a result, smaller towns started to produce players who made it into the national team. For instance, the rural village of Jallandher is the birth place of storied Indian cricketer, Harbajhan Singh, while Mohammed Kaif hails from Allahabad (Ugra 2005, p.88). Since the national team is made up of players belonging to various regions and religions, it may seemingly strike the embodied identity and nationalistic purpose of India. However, this coll ective identity seems artificial and uneasily juxtaposed between communal identities. For instance, Muslims in India are still being accused of supporting Pakistan during India- Pakistan matches (Crick 2007, p.5). Although Guttmann(2003, p.369) argues that sports can allow ethnic or religious minorities to be part of the collective identity without forgoing their individual identities, the Indian case proves to be of contrary and suggests that it is difficult to forge a singular hegemonic national identity.In addition, with Indian Diaspora scattered throughout the world due to globalization, the Indian media has been highly influential in helping these communities to baffle on to their Indian identities through the televising of cricket matches (Majumdar 2008, p.129). However, this has led to the questioning of the allegiance of these immigrants to their newly adopted countries. For instance, the British Conservative Minister, Norman Tebbit once proclaimed that Indian immigrants in the United Kingdom should display their loyalty to their new home by supporting the English cricket team instead of the Indian team (BBC News 2006). This essentially puts the Indian immigrants in a predicament as they are presented with two conflicting global or national identities India will upset them as traitors if they were to support any other country apart from India while, the countries that they live in would label them as sojourners if they elected to support India during the matches.3.3 Consumerism and cricket in IndiaNext, the fuddled intertwine of cricket with consumerism has led to the creation of many alternative identities within the nation. Firstly, the slackening of the Indian economy and the widespread effects of the media, meant that cricket had infiltrated the lives of the marginalised middle classes belonging to many of the rural areas in India (Sen 2005, p.103). This has resulted in the creation of a new consumerist society. These groups often do not know t he nuances and technicalities of the game but adopt cricket as a reflection of their metropolitan life style and identity. For instance, these groups idolize cricketers as national celebrities and as a symbol of their metropolitan self. On the substitute side, the appropriation of cricket merely as an identity for modernity might be resented by the puritans of the game who vehemently insist that the passion for the game can only be developed through the thorough understandings of its technicalities.Secondly, consumerism is also said to have liberated Indian womens role in cricket although, the game largely continues to have masculine connotations. Women have started to religiously follow cricket due to players like Rahul Dravid and Dhoni who are adored for their good looks. This marks a move away(predicate) from the ideal notion of an Indian woman who is supposed to be traditional and domesticated. Furthermore, these women are not merely passive followers of the game. They play ac tive roles in cricket as well. For instance, there is a female Indian national cricket team and Bollywood actresses like Priety Zinta own local cricket teams. These women signal the arrival of the new modern yet feminine Indian woman who shares like interests of the game with her husband or male acquaintances (Sen 2005, p.105). However, there is a tendency by traditionalists to equate the modern Indian woman with westernization, therefore creating a possibility of a struggle between the values of the East and the West.Despite the apparent liberalization of women through cricket, ideas of masculinity associated with the game still force themselves through. The female national team does not get the due recognition or exposure strange its male counterpart. Furthermore, the presence of women in a game played and dominatingly viewed by men means that these women would still be objectified and may be treated as sexual fantasies. This certainly exposes the tension between the masculine identity and the identity of the liberated Indian woman within the nation.Last but not least, the menacing monetizing of cricket in India also marked the beginning of match fixing and gambling scandals. During the period of 2000-2001, India was embroiled in match fixing scandals following the take hold of of South African cricket captain Hansie Cronjie (Majumdar 2004, p.310). As a consequence, the national identity fostered by the game suffered a major blow as masses began to lose their romanticisation with cricket and started to doubt the performances of the national team. This illustrates that global developments can have significant impact in the shaping of a national identity.4.0 Cricket in contemporary time4.1 Fervent nationalism (Jingoism)During recent times, Indian nationalistic aspirations associated with cricket has transcended beyond patriotism and developed into jingoism. The nature of one day test cricket matches mean that the final outcome of the games is of the utmos t importance to an Indian cricket fan. Since cricket victories have become the platform to the Indian nations averment in the global and regional arena, there has been immense pressure on the national team to churn out victories. Whenever the team lost, Indian cricket fans would serve in an extreme and appalling manner. For example, when India lost to Australia during a World Cup match in 2003, fans burnt the effigies of the Indian players and carried out mock funeral processions of the players outside their homes. This is ironic because it was the same fans who celebrated the success of their team which defeated Pakistan in the tournament by placing players like Sachin Tendulkar and Saurav Ganguly on a pedestal and worshipping them as gods during the Hindu festival of Shivarathiri (Majumdar 2004, p.346). Moreover, fans have become more vocal in expressing their dissatisfaction with the Indian national teams affairs, signalling their increasing stake in the game. For instance, fo llowing crowd favourite Gangulys exclusion from a test match, widespread protests erupted in Kolkata as fans set up road blockades and carried out mock hangings of the team coach(Express India 2005).4.2 India- Pakistan rivalry continues in CricketThe political tensions within the South Asian region continue to exist since the Partition in 1947. Cricket therefore remains a battleground and a reflection of India- Pakistans unconnected sentiments with one another. Mahajan (2005, p.117) argues that history continues to underpin the politics of friends and foes and the affinity between India and Pakistan is of no exception. The history starting from the hostility between the National Indian Congress and the Muslim League before independence, the bloodshed during the Partition and the continuing struggle over the control of Kashmir carries on to reinforce enmity between both nations (Mcleod 2008, p.1). As such, cricket cannot be played as a normal and friendly game between both teams.Fu rthermore, the matches do not symbolize a competition between two sporting nations. Instead, the anathema of communalism kicks in as India- Pakistan matches become a faceoff between the Hindus and Muslims. Muslims in India are also viewed suspiciously whenever these two teams clash. Hence, this supports the view that the collective national identity forged by cricket in ethnically diverse India has struggled to transcend beyond the considerations of religion.Besides, Indian politicians and the media have continued to exacerbate the relationship between the nations in the name of nationalism. For instance in 2003, following India s victory over Pakistan in a quarter final match, the ruling ships company at the time, Bharata Janata Party (BJP), announced that the national players need not pay income tax for their payments arising from the match (Crick 2007, p.10). The BJP thus appropriated the win to reinforce their communalistic sentiments and quest for a dominant Hindu ideology in India. The Indian media on the other hand, fuels nationalistic sentiments by dramatizing the matches between the nations. Newspapers often represent India- Pakistan matches with imagery of war (Chatterjee 2004, p.625 Dasgupta 2004, p.577).However, attempts at fixture the ties between both the nations need to be acknowledged. For instance, the India Pakistan Goodwill cricket series in 2004 was a diplomatic plan to forge a stronger relationship between both nations (Hutton 2008, p.146). Whether cricket will propagate peace within the South Asian region or will be continued to use as a declaration for fervent nationalistic and communalist sentiments, ultimately lies in the hands of the politicians.4.3 Cricket continues to represent the Indian DemographicDespite the uneasy union of various identities, it needs to be conceded that cricket continues to represent the demographic in India. To illustrate this view, the Oscar nominated Bollywood film, Laagan, will be used as an example becau se films play a large role in Indians lives. Laagan was based on a real life incident that occurred in 1911. A group of bare footed Indian players from Mohun Bagun had defeated an English team in a game of soccer (Ugra 2005, p.91). However, with certain modifications to the screen play, the filmmakers decided to adapt the incident using the popular Indian game of cricket instead of soccer. This shows us the extent that cricket has become a modern symbol of the Indian national identity as the moving-picture show goers were able to identify themselves with the popular sport. It is highly doubtful that the movie would have been well received by the masses if it was based on any other game apart from cricket.5.0 ConclusionCashman (1980, p.111) argues that a cricket crowd is the reflection of the homogeneity of a nations population. However, this must be viewed with reservations in the case of India because cricket has been a vehicle for the expression of various alternative identities. Despite dominantly representing the aspirations of a third world Asian country on the international stage, Indian cricket has also created contradicting identities within the nation itself. It is further contended that these differing identities have gone on to aggravate political tensions within the South Asian region as demonstrated by the India- Pakistan matches. It is hence concluded that India will only be able to foster a singular Indian identity through cricket if it is able to reflect each and every communitys diversity in the universal (Carens 2000, p.166-73).

F Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom Oceans Policy

F Australia, Canada and the unite Kingdom Oceans indemnityIntroductionThe Worlds current approach to ocean insurance and sustainable mari time reading is establish on two main Inter field of study strategic foundations UNCLOS and UNCED. some(prenominal) if incorporated they succeed the basis for oceans governance and oceans form _or_ system of government stray work. They enable states to exercise and harbor bailiwicks sovereign rights and jurisdiction over nautical resources and offshore aras. At the same time they obligate states to ensure ocean wasting diseases are ecologic whollyy sustainable. The execution of instrument of the provisions of UNCLOS, related Conventions, rules and standards relating to the defendion and preservation of the ocean purlieu and to the preservation and guidance of living maritime resources, as intimately as the capital punishment of the commitments agreed to in Chapter 17 of docket 21, present some of the major(ip)(ip) challe nges liner the global ocean community. These challenges cannot be met by maven section, superstar declare, one ministry, or one local community alone. It is on that pointfore very important to fix co unconscious process and coordination at all levels. At the discipline level, the maritime prop must be combine within the overall national form _or_ system of government. The adoption of an ocean policy is a very important mechanism to achieving an integrated, interdisciplinary, inter celestial sphereal and eco administration-based approach to oceans anxiety. A coherent legislative theoretical account is also essential. However the learning of this national oceans policy depends on every state situation. Vertical and horizontal integrating amid these two foundations, need a high political umbrella and a lead ministry for prospect the national devil dog agenda. This agenda must be based on sound scientific priorities culture plan required for beneathstanding how be st to protect interior(a)s devil dog biological re rawal, the ocean environment and its resources, and on a wide consultation process with all stakeholder. Comparative analysis of the learning process of national ocean policy in major maritime nations such as Australia, Canada, the coupled Kingdom, shows in spite of the fact that Agenda 21 has tolerated a stool defined syllabusme and management activities, each demesne put one over followed a different approach in maturation its national oceans management outline. All of them flummox apply these two international foundations and their guiding principles in developing their oceans policies. These approaches are integrated in content and are precautionary and anticipatory in ambit, as required by UNCLOS and as reflected in the Chapter 17 of Agenda 21 programme areas. The first programme in chapter 17 is Integrated management and sustainable development of coastal areas, including exclusive sparing zones. (Agenda 21, 1992). To this end, and according to Chapter 17 the state should establish the necessary strengthening appropriate coordinating mechanisms (such as a high-level policy plan body) (Agenda 21, 1992). It further states Such mechanisms should include consultation, as appropriate, with the academic and private sectors, non-governmental organizations, local communities, resource exerciser groups, and endemical people. also coastal states are required to improve their might to collect, analyse, assess and use instruction for sustainable use of resources, including environmental impacts of activities affecting the coastal and maritime areas. breeding for management purposes should gull priority support in view of the intensity and order of magnitude of the changes occurring in the coastal and marine areas. some separate related management activities includePreparation and implementation of land and water use and sitting policiesImplementation of integrated coastal and marine mana gement and sustainable development plans and programmes at appropriate levelsPreparation of coastal profiles identifying critical areas, including eroded zones, physical processes, development patterns, user conflicts and particular(prenominal) priorities for managementPrior environmental impact assessment, opinionated observation and follow-up of major projects, including the systematic incorporation of results in decision-makingContingency plans for human induced and subjective disasters, including likely effects of potential climate change and sea level rise, as well as contingency plans for degradation and pollution of anthropogenic origin, including spills of vegetable oil and other(a) materialsImprovement of coastal human settlements, especially in housing, drinking water and discourse and disposal of sewage, solid idles and industrial effluentsPeriodic assessment of the impacts of international factors and phenomena to ensure that the objectives of integrated manageme nt and sustainable development of coastal areas and the marine environment are met saving and restoration of altered critical habitatsIntegration of sectoral programmes on sustainable development for settlements, agriculture, tourism, fishing, ports and industries affecting the coastal areaInfrastructure adaptation and alternative physical exerciseHuman resource development and trainingPublic education, sentience and discipline programmesPromoting environmentally sound technology and sustainable practicesDevelopment and simultaneous implementation of environmental shade criteria.The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stands at a busy road. The Kingdom has the opportunity to develop its maritime sector and sustainably manage national marine resources. The precondition of national marine resources and governance is not good marine resources are degraded and marine governance is inadequate. This indicates that an urgent action is needed to save the jeopardise national seas and opportunitie s. As has been highlighted and underlined in previous chapters, Saudi Arabia marine governance must be reorganized under one document a wide National maritime insurance. Comprehensive national marine policies are a relatively wise trend in ocean governance. As implied they address all marine and coastal issues. NMPs are a response to the sectoral confused approach currently dominating marine governance which often leads to unorganized management and permission as new responsibilities are delegated to different agencies as they arise. In addition to incorporating all marine and coastal issues, NMPs seek to integrate all levels of governance local, provincial, national, regional and international. The terminus integrated management is used to describe this approach. Although many another(prenominal) countries and regions oblige created omnibus(prenominal) marine or ocean policies, I focus on marine policy development process and governance as develop and experienced in Aust ralia, Canada and the United Kingdom for two reasons First they represent the first tether leading countries in the existence that have actual comprehensive ocean policy and governance framework and is being implemented and tried to differing levels of success Canada enacted the Oceans motion of 1996 followed by the release of Australias Ocean Policy in 1998. abundant Britain followed in May 2002, with Safeguarding Our Seas A dodge for the Conservation and Sustainable Development of our maritime milieu. separately country has followed a different policy route to sustainable oceans development. While Australia has followed a totally pure policy frame work by providing a new structure, mechanism and policy guidance for delivering its comprehensive national oceans policy Canada followed a different approach by first providing a comprehensive statutory framework for oceans uses and resources management within Canada different maritime zones including the 200nm EEZ and Continent al shelf, second by producing Canada Oceans Strategy in July of 2002. The United Kingdom has followed a totally different approach by first developing a conservation strategy followed by introducing a single piece of legislation to protect the marine environment by enacting in 2009 the Marine and Coastal Act. Second, the three countries have developed their policies in accordance with Chapter 17 of Agenda 21 and based on the 1994 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Being the world leaders in oceans policies, I focus on oceans policy development process in these three countries as examples their successes and leadership role in oceans policy can guide the creation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Marine Policy.Comparative Overview of Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom oceans policyAustraliaInitiation solveAustralia is the first country to set in place a policy framework for an integrated and ecosystem based planning and management for all of Austr alias marine jurisdictions. With the release of Australias Oceans Policy (AOP) in 1998, Australia has demonstrated a world leadership by implementing a coherent, strategic planning and management framework for dealing with complex issues confronting the long term upcoming of Australias oceans (AOP1, 1999). AOP was initiated by a political announcement from the prime minister, followed by a wide unrestricted consultation process using a consultation document (Oceans- wise Horizon). AOP process was initiated by the end of 1995 when the Prime subgenus Pastor at that time announce that the Commonwealth government had agreed to the development of an integrated oceans strategy that would deal with the management of Australias marine resources (AOP, 1998). However, due to the federal election and change of government dwarfish progress was achieved, but in 1996 the new government denote that it would continue developing the oceans policy as being an environmental protection policy and transferred the righteousness for developing the policy agenda from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to the Department of purlieu, Sport and Territories (DEST) (Bateman, 1997). Later on the name of this part has been changed to the Department of surroundings and Heritage (DEH) charged with protecting and conserving Australias natural environment and heathenish heritage.Lead MinistryIn 1996 the new Australian government announced that it would continue developing the oceans policy as being an environmental protection policy and transferred the duty for developing the policy agenda from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to the Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH) (Vince, 2003). As a result of the transfer of righteousness for oceans policy development, Australia Environment Minister led the process by establishing an intergovernmental committee to swear out with the provision of the policy (Vince, 2003). employ the collaborative ar chem ical chainments and musket ball intergovernmental linkages, the Minister open up a committee encompassing members from major Commonwealth agencies subscribed in marine affairs. Also a number of other committees were formed during these early stages of development to assist with the development of a discussion opus (Vince, 2003). The Committee has prepared the Oceans-New Horizon paper which has been launched in March 1997 to assist in the first consultations go with State, Territory and Local governments, peak bodies and organizations and the general unrestricted. The New Horizon set out a pen vision, goal and objectives for Australia Oceans Policy and an indication of some of the bounteous issues relevant to an Oceans Policy as well as briefly introducing some of the features of Australia oceans (New Horizon, 1997).Consultation ProcessAfter the publication of the New Horizon paper a second round of consultation begun through a public forum to review the draft policy paper (M AGOP, 1998). During this process, Environment Australia organised public forums where the public could get an overview of the Issues Paper and to append comment. The forums consisted of two parts, the first part included a formal briefing from Environment Australia officials while the second component was an breeding session organised by the state branches of the Marine and Coastal Communities net profit (MCCN) (Vince, 2003). maritime ministerial BoardBefore the release of AOP the Australian presidential term complete a Ministerial Advisory Group on Ocean Policy in 1997 to provide advice to the Minister for Environment and Heritage on the views of the liberal range of stakeholders of the policy and any other issues the Group thought relevant to the development of the policy (AOP1, 1998). It has also been suggested that the MAGOP was established to gain the support of NGOs during the Policy process as well as to conjure public awareness (Vince, 2003). Later on the MAGOP was re placed by a National Oceans Ministerial Board (NOMB) of key Commonwealth Ministers, chaired by the Minister for the Environment and Heritage (Foster, 2005). The task of the board is to drive the implementation of the AOP by overseeing regional planning processes, furthering policy development, overseeing cross sector coordination, setting priorities for program expenditure and coordinating the Oceans Policy with State governments (AOP1, 1998).Oceans StrategyBased on the wide policy consultation process Australia was quickly able to develop its sustainable National Ocean Policy and vision of Healthy oceans cared for, understood and used wisely for the make of all, now and in the future(AOP1, 1998). The aim of the strategy is to overcome problems comprehend to arise from a division of powers and responsibilities leading to territorial overlap and inconsistencies in ocean management (Vince, et al. 2003). The strategy also intends to overcome the problems and limitations imposed by s ector based management by supporting integration across sectors through regional marine planning. AOP came in two vividnesss (AOP1, 1998). The first saturation targeted nine major objectives 1) exercise and protect Australias rights and jurisdiction over offshore areas, including offshore resources. 2) To meet Australias international obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and other international treaties. 3) To understand and protect Australias marine biological diversity, the ocean environment and its resources, and ensure ocean uses are ecologically sustainable. 4) To promote ecologically sustainable economic development and job creation. 5) To establish integrated oceans planning and management arrangements. 6) To accommodate community need and aspirations. 7) To improve expertise and capabilities in ocean-related management, experience, technology and engineering. 8) To identify and protect Australias natural and cultural marine heritage. 9) To promote public awareness and understanding (AOP1, 1998). The key principles that were used in developing Australia ocean policy intrinsically indigenous peoples interests stewardship ethic intergenerational and social equity ecologically sustainable use conservation of biological diversity participatory, transparent and accountable decision making and management and integrated planning and management(AOP1, 1998).Ocean Action figureThe second volume of Australias Oceans Policy complements the first volume of the Policy by outlining specific measures that are being or leave behind be pursued by the Commonwealth across ocean sectors and interest(AOP2, 1998). The Specific Sectoral Measures volume is comprehensive in its scope, covering the major environmental, constancy, community, search, scientific, international and defending team interests that the Commonwealth has responsibility for in marine jurisdictions. The document has identified 390 commitments across those five broad areas and detailed implementation schedule of actions. The schedule identified organisations prudent for implementing actions, priorities, milestones and resourcing (AOP2, 1998). This detail facilitated the auditing of the Policy and contributed to an assessment of its effectiveness.New InstitutionTo implement AOP a National Oceans constituent (NOO), was established to provide secretariat and technical support and programme delivery for oceans policy initiatives(AOP1, 1998). The NOO was amenable for coordinating the overall implementation and finalize the detailed implementation schedule of actions and further development of the Oceans Policy(AOP2, 1998). NOO also was responsible for coordination and scattering of learning on oceans policy implementation and regional marine planning matters to all stakeholders(Addison and Chenko, et al. 2005). Other new institutions included the National Oceans Ministerial Board, regional Marine political platform Steering Committees and the National Oceans Advisory Group (NOAG). In 2005 NOO lost its executive elbow room status and is now located within the Marine theatrical role of the Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH, 2005). The Minister of Environment and Heritage has the responsibility for NOO through the department and reports to Cabinet on its progress (Haward and Vince, 2006).Ocean Research Priorities PlanWhilst AOP development process was progressing, the Marine cognizance and Technology Working Group, comprising representatives of Australian Government marine science and related agencies, as well as State research institutions and non-government marine science interests were working to develop Australias Marine Science and Technology Plan (Alder, 2001). The government aimed to develop and release the Plan as a companion to Australias Oceans Policy(Vince, 2004). The Marine scientific informatory committee was tasked with promoting coordination and information sharing between Government marine scie nce agencies and across the broader Australian marine science community(AMSTP, 1999). The MSTC prepared a Marine Science and Technology Plan to provide a strategy, consistent with the Oceans Policy, for integrated and innovative science, technology and engineering. The Plan encompasses three major programs under each program multiple objectives(AMSTP, 1999) . intellectual the Marine Environment ( 7 objectives)Using and Caring for the Marine Environment ( 15 objectives)Infrastructure for Understanding and Utilising the Marine Environment ( 6 objectives).LegislationAustralia Oceans Policy has established new institutions to oversee the implementation of the Regional Marine Planning process. The institutions have emphasised a departure from traditional sectoral arrangements whilst incorporating over 100 laws and policy instruments addressing aspects of the management of the marine environment and the court-ordered jurisdictional framework established through offshore federalism(Hawar d and Vince, 2006). The shoreward Constitutional Settlement (OCS) returned the jurisdiction over 3nm from the low water mark to the states(Stark, 2004). OCS remains the primary election intergovernmental arrangement governing ocean and marine resources in Australia and makes up the jurisdictional framework for the development and implementation of the Ocean Policy(Vince, 2004). Since Australia Ocean Policy has been developed as being an environmental protection policy the principal Australian legislation is the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999(cth) (EPBC Act)(Akwilapo, 2007). The EPBC Act and the associated Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2000 (EPBC Regulation) provide a national framework for Environment protection through focusing on protecting areas of national environmental significance and on the conservation of Australias biodiversity (Akwilapo, 2007). On the other hand, a commitment to ecologically sustainable d evelopment and multiple use management is embedded within the Oceans Policy framework emphasising a commitment to, inter alia, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Developments (UNCED) Agenda 21 principles and UNCLOS (Akwilapo, 2007).Integrated Marine Spatial PlanningThe AOP emphasised that Australia Regional Marine Plans is based on large marine ecosystems. This system helps to maintain ecosystem health and integrity while promoting multiple use of oceans by integrating sectoral commercial message interests and conservation requirements. Australia approach to Integrated Ocean Planning and guidance encompass the following(AOP2, 1998)Development of a new institutional arrangement comprising the National Oceans Ministerial Board, the National Oceans Advisory Group and the National Oceans Office and Regional Marine Plan Steering Committees.Providing policy guidance for oceans planning and management.Regional Marine Plan, based on large marine ecosystems. The first plan wa s developed for the south-eastern region of Australias EEZ.Funds for National marine resource surveys development of sustainpower indicators and monitor and rapid assessments of the biological resources of Australias oceans. The resulting information based was used to underpin effective regional integration for planning and management. These assessments also benefit industry by providing information on potential new resources such as deep-water fisheries and pharmaceuticals.Development of National part System of Marine Protected Areas.Development of Marine Parks and World Heritage Areas. ocean Safety and Environment Protection PlanThe Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) has developed a strategy to protect the marine environment from rapture operations through improved environmental management of expatriation and related activities(Stark, 2004). The strategy encompass designation of marine sensitive areas, promote improvement of waste receptio n facilities at ports, marinas and boat harbours, improve anti-fouling practices, management and pilot a national monitoring programme for marine debris, community and industry awareness, and support for the intensify National Plan to Combat Pollution of the Sea by Oil and Other Noxious and Hazardous Substances (the National Plan) (AOP1, 1998). Under the AOP the Government act to set up maritime safety and highlighted the importance of enhancing regional cooperative arrangement for search and deliverance, development and implementation of search and rescue arrangements implementation of the Global Maritime distress Safety System(GMDSS), pursue consistent requirements for the use of Emergency adjust Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and maritime communications for small vessels(AOP2, 1998). To further ensure the Safety of Navigation, the Government committed to maintain efficient coast-effective maritime safety navigation work and groundwork, expansion of the local area Diff erential Global Positioning Systems (DGPS) services technological development in marine navigation, and involvement in the International tie-up of Lighthouse Authorities and other international forums to ensure global navigational safety policies, standards and new technologies(AOP2, 1998).Maritime Surveillance and Security PlanTo ensure that there is an effective and efficient surveillance capacity for Australias marine jurisdictions and effective enforcement of national legislation end-to-end Australias marine jurisdictions. Under the Oceans Policy the Australian government keep to pursue through the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) and other to growing action addressing illegal fishing in CCAMLR and coterminous waters increased surveillance and enforcement measures in the Great Barrier Reef continued to cooperate to review and rationalise effort involved in and capacity for surveillance and enforcement including reviewing legislati on relating to enforcement in Australias marine jurisdictions(AOP2, 1998). The Oceans Policy highlighted that the Australian Defence Forces (ADF) tasks encompass safeguarding these areas, unequivocal of maritime approaches to exercise and protect Australias sovereignty and sovereign rights. This involve preparedness and contingency planning maritime surveillance and response fisheries law enforcement search and rescue hydrographic services and the Australian Oceanographic Data Centre (AODC)(AOP2, 1998).Maritime Sector Development PlanDuring AOP development process the Marine Industry Development Strategy was also announced. The Strategy highlighted what the Marine Industry is worth what should stupefy for further resourceful developments(AOP2,1998). It illustrated that 90 per cent of Australias oil and gas is sourced offshore that the shipbuilding industry supplies one third of the worlds high speed ferry merchandise wild capture fisheries represent a major primary industry and t hat marine tourism is a booming industry(Vince, 2004). The Specific Measures Volume of Australia Oceans Policy underpinned several(prenominal) challenges facing the maritime sector and the various activities such as fisheries aquaculture offshore petroleum and minerals shipping marine tourism marine construction, engineering and other industries pharmaceutical, bioengineering and genetic resources and alternative energy resources. For meeting these challenges the policy proposed numerous activities under each one of them. For example to meet the shipping sector challenge to increase treat and regional development by delivering safe, efficient, competitive and environmentally responsible maritime infrastructure and shipping services(AOP2, 1998). The policy identified measures including regulatory reform of the maritime sector with a view to removing barriers to competition, rationalise jurisdictional arrangements, harmonise standards and promote mutual credit and encourage continu ous improvements in shipping and waterfront sectors to enhance the competitiveness of Australian trade and industry to continue Australia leading role in international trade and maritime forums to ensure access to competitive and efficient international shipping services is maintained(AOP2, 1998).Marine Education and Training PlanUnder Australias Marine Science and Technology Plan, NOO is responsible for providing advice to the Ministerial Board on marine research priorities relevant to the Oceans Policy to ensure that the marine research agencies are kept advised of the Governments emerging priorities(TFG, 2002). The NOMB is responsible to consider Government priorities for publicly funded marine research related to the implementation of the Oceans Policy including community capacity building, networking opportunities, and community participation in marine management, research and monitoring and data collection and provide opportunities for community representation on consultativ e committees in paying attention to marine resource management, the formation of a new marine science research and pedagogy centre at Coffs Harbour support for the Australian, Pacific and Global Oceans Observing Systems establishment and operation of a Regional Office of the International Oceanographic Commission in Perth, Western Australia provision of quality maritime education and research and training and employment in jointly managed parks development of a long term marine education policy and programme for kindergarten to year 12 to be incorporated in curricula in all States and Territories development of relevant resource materials for use in schools and Technical and Further Education colleges in cooperation with professional bodies and support for the provision of quality practical educational material for teachers and students(AMSTP, 1999).National Maritime data CenterTo improve monitoring and understanding of marine ecosystems and the impacts of resource use Australia government has developed the Australian Coastal Atlas, within the Environmental Resource Information Network (ERIN), to allow general access to adequate information for community involvement in oceans management as a fundamental element of the Australian Spatial Data Infrastructure(AOP2, 1998). Thus, the Australian government provided support for the Marine and Coastal Community Network to develop a comprehensive communication strategy to assist the public, industry and governments learn about and understand the role of Australias Oceans Policy. Also the government supported the Australian Surveying and Land Information Group (AUSLIGs) continuing development of the Australian Maritime Boundaries Information System as a national database of Australias maritime jurisdictional boundary data to provides Australias with an independent and scientifically credible information on Australias environment for decision-makers and the wider community(AOP2, 1998). AUSLIG is the Commonwealth focal point for coordination of geodetic information and works fast with State and Territory agencies, the Inter-governmental Committee on Surveying and social function (ICSM) and industry groups towards the provision of the highest quality geodetic infrastructure(AUSLIG, 2009). Moreover, AUSLIGs under the ocean policy is responsible for the development of a coordinated observations and methods to analyse and interpret the data that will make optimum use of information from remote and in situ measurements at the space and time scales required for effective monitoring, use, management and conservation(AOP2, 1998). It is clear that the lack of a comprehensive system of monitoring sites, and lack of long-term commitment to monitoring inshore and offshore, specially on the scale of large marine ecosystems has affected Australia ability to assess changes in the condition of the marine environment. Thus, AOP recognized that Integration of coastal, inshore and offshore monitoring activities is vital to National capacity for future assessments and maintenance of marine and coastal environments(AOP1, 1998).National Oceans ForumTo provide for Community representation and participation, the AOP established a National Oceans Advisory Group as a non-government consultative and advisory body to the National Oceans Ministerial Board(AOP1, 1998). The NOAG is responsible for promoting strategic management of the ocean environment and its resources to provide opportunities for community representation on consultative committees in regard to marine resource management and facilitate consultation with peak indigenous groups on the requirements for establishing a national consultative mechanism, such as an annual forum(AOP1, 1998). Thus, to promote implementation of Australia Oceans Policy, the policy called for holding a National Oceans Forum to coordinate across the agencies responsible for the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and a broad national cross-section of those with a stake in the management of Australia oceans(IOC, 2007).International CooperationGiven the slashing nature of the marine environment, AOP recognized that the effective implementation of the Oceans Policy requires cooperation with immediate neighbours and other countries to address the transboundary impacts and improve regional cooperation on ocean issues(AOP1, 1998). Thus, AOP called for peaceful use of the oceans and cooperation in access for national and international scientific research and monitoring programmes cooperation with neighbouring countries and with industries to maximise resources improved cooperation and coordination between existing coastal moF Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom Oceans PolicyF Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom Oceans PolicyIntroductionThe Worlds current approach to ocean policy and sustainable maritime development is based on two main International strategic foundations UNCLOS and UNCED. Both if integrated they provide the basis for oceans governance and oceans policy frame work. They enable states to exercise and protect Nationals sovereign rights and jurisdiction over marine resources and offshore areas. At the same time they obligate states to ensure ocean uses are ecologically sustainable. The implementation of the provisions of UNCLOS, related Conventions, rules and standards relating to the protection and preservation of the marine environment and to the conservation and management of living marine resources, as well as the implementation of the commitments agreed to in Chapter 17 of Agenda 21, present some of the major challenges facing the international ocean community. These challenges cannot be met by one region, one State, one ministry, or one local community alone. It is therefore very important to strengthen cooperation and coordination at all levels. At the national level, the marine dimension must be integrated within the overall national policy. The adoption of an ocean policy is a very important mechanism to achieving an integrated, interdisciplinary, intersectoral and ecosystem-based approach to oceans management. A coherent legislative framework is also essential. However the development of this national oceans policy depends on every state situation. Vertical and horizontal integration between these two foundations, need a high political umbrella and a lead ministry for setting the national marine agenda. This agenda must be based on sound scientific priorities development plan required for understanding how best to protect Nationals marine biological diversity, the ocean environment and its resources, and on a wide consultation process with all stakeholder. Comparative analysis of the development process of national ocean policy in major maritime nations such as Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, shows in spite of the fact that Agenda 21 has provided a clear defined programme and management activities, each country have followed a different approach in developing its national oceans management strategy. All of them have used these two international foundations and their guiding principles in developing their oceans policies. These approaches are integrated in content and are precautionary and anticipatory in ambit, as required by UNCLOS and as reflected in the Chapter 17 of Agenda 21 programme areas. The first programme in chapter 17 is Integrated management and sustainable development of coastal areas, including exclusive economic zones. (Agenda 21, 1992). To this end, and according to Chapter 17 the state should establish the necessary strengthening appropriate coordinating mechanisms (such as a high-level policy planning body) (Agenda 21, 1992). It further states Such mechanisms should include consultation, as appropriate, with the academic and private sectors, non-governmental organizations, local communities, resource user groups, and indigenous people. Also coastal states are required to improve their capacity to collect, analyse, assess and use information for sustainable use of resources, including environmental impacts of activities affecting the coastal and marine areas. Information for management purposes should receive priority support in view of the intensity and magnitude of the changes occurring in the coastal and marine areas. Other related management activities includePreparation and implementation of land and water use and sitting policiesImplementation of integrated coastal and marine management and sustainable development plans and programmes at appropriate levelsPreparation of coastal profiles identifying critical areas, including eroded zones, physical processes, development patterns, user conflicts and specific priorities for managementPrior environmental impact assessment, systematic observation and follow-up of major projects, including the systematic incorporation of results in decision-makingContingency plans for human induced and natural disasters, including likely effects of p otential climate change and sea level rise, as well as contingency plans for degradation and pollution of anthropogenic origin, including spills of oil and other materialsImprovement of coastal human settlements, especially in housing, drinking water and treatment and disposal of sewage, solid wastes and industrial effluentsPeriodic assessment of the impacts of external factors and phenomena to ensure that the objectives of integrated management and sustainable development of coastal areas and the marine environment are metConservation and restoration of altered critical habitatsIntegration of sectoral programmes on sustainable development for settlements, agriculture, tourism, fishing, ports and industries affecting the coastal areaInfrastructure adaptation and alternative employmentHuman resource development and trainingPublic education, awareness and information programmesPromoting environmentally sound technology and sustainable practicesDevelopment and simultaneous implementati on of environmental quality criteria.The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stands at a cross road. The Kingdom has the opportunity to develop its maritime sector and sustainably manage national marine resources. The status of national marine resources and governance is not good marine resources are degraded and marine governance is inadequate. This indicates that an urgent action is needed to save the threatened national seas and opportunities. As has been highlighted and underlined in previous chapters, Saudi Arabia marine governance must be reorganized under one document a comprehensive National Marine Policy. Comprehensive national marine policies are a relatively new trend in ocean governance. As implied they address all marine and coastal issues. NMPs are a response to the sectoral fragmented approach currently dominating marine governance which often leads to unorganized management and authority as new responsibilities are delegated to different agencies as they arise. In addition to in corporating all marine and coastal issues, NMPs seek to integrate all levels of governance local, provincial, national, regional and international. The term integrated management is used to describe this approach. Although many countries and regions have created comprehensive marine or ocean policies, I focus on marine policy development process and governance as developed and experienced in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom for two reasons First they represent the first three leading countries in the world that have developed comprehensive ocean policy and governance framework and is being implemented and tried to differing levels of success Canada enacted the Oceans Act of 1996 followed by the release of Australias Ocean Policy in 1998. Great Britain followed in May 2002, with Safeguarding Our Seas A Strategy for the Conservation and Sustainable Development of our Marine Environment. Each country has followed a different policy route to sustainable oceans development. While Australia has followed a totally pure policy frame work by providing a new structure, mechanism and policy guidance for delivering its comprehensive national oceans policy Canada followed a different approach by first providing a comprehensive legal framework for oceans uses and resources management within Canada different maritime zones including the 200nm EEZ and continental shelf, second by producing Canada Oceans Strategy in July of 2002. The United Kingdom has followed a totally different approach by first developing a conservation strategy followed by introducing a single piece of legislation to protect the marine environment by enacting in 2009 the Marine and Coastal Act. Second, the three countries have developed their policies in accordance with Chapter 17 of Agenda 21 and based on the 1994 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Being the world leaders in oceans policies, I focus on oceans policy development process in these three countries as examples t heir successes and leadership role in oceans policy can guide the creation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Marine Policy.Comparative Overview of Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom oceans policyAustraliaInitiation ProcessAustralia is the first country to set in place a policy framework for an integrated and ecosystem based planning and management for all of Australias marine jurisdictions. With the release of Australias Oceans Policy (AOP) in 1998, Australia has demonstrated a world leadership by implementing a coherent, strategic planning and management framework for dealing with complex issues confronting the long term future of Australias oceans (AOP1, 1999). AOP was initiated by a political announcement from the prime minister, followed by a wide public consultation process using a consultation document (Oceans- New Horizon). AOP process was initiated by the end of 1995 when the Prime Minister at that time announced that the Commonwealth government had agreed to the development of an integrated oceans strategy that would deal with the management of Australias marine resources (AOP, 1998). However, due to the federal election and change of government little progress was achieved, but in 1996 the new government announced that it would continue developing the oceans policy as being an environmental protection policy and transferred the responsibility for developing the policy agenda from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to the Department of Environment, Sport and Territories (DEST) (Bateman, 1997). Later on the name of this department has been changed to the Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH) charged with protecting and conserving Australias natural environment and cultural heritage.Lead MinistryIn 1996 the new Australian government announced that it would continue developing the oceans policy as being an environmental protection policy and transferred the responsibility for developing the policy agenda from the Departme nt of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to the Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH) (Vince, 2003). As a result of the transfer of responsibility for oceans policy development, Australia Environment Minister led the process by establishing an intergovernmental committee to assist with the preparation of the policy (Vince, 2003). Using the collaborative arrangements and formal intergovernmental linkages, the Minister established a committee encompassing members from major Commonwealth agencies involved in marine affairs. Also a number of other committees were formed during these early stages of development to assist with the development of a discussion paper (Vince, 2003). The Committee has prepared the Oceans-New Horizon paper which has been launched in March 1997 to assist in the first consultations round with State, Territory and Local governments, peak bodies and organizations and the general public. The New Horizon set out a draft vision, goal and objectives for Australia Oc eans Policy and an indication of some of the broad issues relevant to an Oceans Policy as well as briefly introducing some of the features of Australia oceans (New Horizon, 1997).Consultation ProcessAfter the publication of the New Horizon paper a second round of consultation begun through a public forum to review the draft policy paper (MAGOP, 1998). During this process, Environment Australia organised public forums where the public could get an overview of the Issues Paper and to provide comment. The forums consisted of two parts, the first part included a formal briefing from Environment Australia officials while the second component was an information session organised by the state branches of the Marine and Coastal Communities Network (MCCN) (Vince, 2003).Maritime Ministerial BoardBefore the release of AOP the Australian Government established a Ministerial Advisory Group on Ocean Policy in 1997 to provide advice to the Minister for Environment and Heritage on the views of the broad range of stakeholders of the policy and any other issues the Group thought relevant to the development of the policy (AOP1, 1998). It has also been suggested that the MAGOP was established to gain the support of NGOs during the Policy process as well as to promote public awareness (Vince, 2003). Later on the MAGOP was replaced by a National Oceans Ministerial Board (NOMB) of key Commonwealth Ministers, chaired by the Minister for the Environment and Heritage (Foster, 2005). The task of the board is to drive the implementation of the AOP by overseeing regional planning processes, furthering policy development, overseeing cross sector coordination, setting priorities for program expenditure and coordinating the Oceans Policy with State governments (AOP1, 1998).Oceans StrategyBased on the wide policy consultation process Australia was quickly able to develop its sustainable National Ocean Policy and vision of Healthy oceans cared for, understood and used wisely for the benefit of all, now and in the future(AOP1, 1998). The aim of the strategy is to overcome problems perceived to arise from a division of powers and responsibilities leading to jurisdictional overlap and inconsistencies in ocean management (Vince, et al. 2003). The strategy also intends to overcome the problems and limitations imposed by sector based management by supporting integration across sectors through regional marine planning. AOP came in two volumes (AOP1, 1998). The first volume targeted nine major objectives 1) exercise and protect Australias rights and jurisdiction over offshore areas, including offshore resources. 2) To meet Australias international obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and other international treaties. 3) To understand and protect Australias marine biological diversity, the ocean environment and its resources, and ensure ocean uses are ecologically sustainable. 4) To promote ecologically sustainable economic development and job cre ation. 5) To establish integrated oceans planning and management arrangements. 6) To accommodate community needs and aspirations. 7) To improve expertise and capabilities in ocean-related management, science, technology and engineering. 8) To identify and protect Australias natural and cultural marine heritage. 9) To promote public awareness and understanding (AOP1, 1998). The key principles that were used in developing Australia ocean policy intrinsically indigenous peoples interests stewardship ethic intergenerational and social equity ecologically sustainable use conservation of biological diversity participatory, transparent and accountable decision making and management and integrated planning and management(AOP1, 1998).Ocean Action PlanThe second volume of Australias Oceans Policy complements the first volume of the Policy by outlining specific measures that are being or will be pursued by the Commonwealth across ocean sectors and interest(AOP2, 1998). The Specific Sectoral Me asures volume is comprehensive in its scope, covering the major environmental, industry, community, research, scientific, international and defence interests that the Commonwealth has responsibility for in marine jurisdictions. The document has identified 390 commitments across those five broad areas and detailed implementation schedule of actions. The schedule identified organisations responsible for implementing actions, priorities, milestones and resourcing (AOP2, 1998). This detail facilitated the auditing of the Policy and contributed to an assessment of its effectiveness.New InstitutionTo implement AOP a National Oceans Office (NOO), was established to provide secretariat and technical support and programme delivery for oceans policy initiatives(AOP1, 1998). The NOO was responsible for coordinating the overall implementation and finalize the detailed implementation schedule of actions and further development of the Oceans Policy(AOP2, 1998). NOO also was responsible for coordi nation and distribution of information on oceans policy implementation and regional marine planning matters to all stakeholders(Addison and Chenko, et al. 2005). Other new institutions included the National Oceans Ministerial Board, Regional Marine Plan Steering Committees and the National Oceans Advisory Group (NOAG). In 2005 NOO lost its executive agency status and is now located within the Marine Division of the Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH, 2005). The Minister of Environment and Heritage has the responsibility for NOO through the department and reports to Cabinet on its progress (Haward and Vince, 2006).Ocean Research Priorities PlanWhilst AOP development process was progressing, the Marine Science and Technology Working Group, comprising representatives of Australian Government marine science and related agencies, as well as State research institutions and non-government marine science interests were working to develop Australias Marine Science and Technology Pla n (Alder, 2001). The government aimed to develop and release the Plan as a companion to Australias Oceans Policy(Vince, 2004). The Marine scientific advisory committee was tasked with promoting coordination and information sharing between Government marine science agencies and across the broader Australian marine science community(AMSTP, 1999). The MSTC prepared a Marine Science and Technology Plan to provide a strategy, consistent with the Oceans Policy, for integrated and innovative science, technology and engineering. The Plan encompasses three major programs under each program multiple objectives(AMSTP, 1999) .Understanding the Marine Environment ( 7 objectives)Using and Caring for the Marine Environment ( 15 objectives)Infrastructure for Understanding and Utilising the Marine Environment ( 6 objectives).LegislationAustralia Oceans Policy has established new institutions to oversee the implementation of the Regional Marine Planning process. The institutions have emphasised a dep arture from traditional sectoral arrangements whilst incorporating over 100 laws and policy instruments addressing aspects of the management of the marine environment and the legal jurisdictional framework established through offshore federalism(Haward and Vince, 2006). The Offshore Constitutional Settlement (OCS) returned the jurisdiction over 3nm from the low water mark to the states(Stark, 2004). OCS remains the primary intergovernmental arrangement governing ocean and marine resources in Australia and makes up the jurisdictional framework for the development and implementation of the Ocean Policy(Vince, 2004). Since Australia Ocean Policy has been developed as being an environmental protection policy the principal Australian legislation is the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999(cth) (EPBC Act)(Akwilapo, 2007). The EPBC Act and the associated Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2000 (EPBC Regulation) provide a national fram ework for Environment protection through focusing on protecting areas of national environmental significance and on the conservation of Australias biodiversity (Akwilapo, 2007). On the other hand, a commitment to ecologically sustainable development and multiple use management is embedded within the Oceans Policy framework emphasising a commitment to, inter alia, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Developments (UNCED) Agenda 21 principles and UNCLOS (Akwilapo, 2007).Integrated Marine Spatial PlanningThe AOP emphasised that Australia Regional Marine Plans is based on large marine ecosystems. This system helps to maintain ecosystem health and integrity while promoting multiple use of oceans by integrating sectoral commercial interests and conservation requirements. Australia approach to Integrated Ocean Planning and Management encompass the following(AOP2, 1998)Development of a new institutional arrangement comprising the National Oceans Ministerial Board, the National O ceans Advisory Group and the National Oceans Office and Regional Marine Plan Steering Committees.Providing policy guidance for oceans planning and management.Regional Marine Plan, based on large marine ecosystems. The first plan was developed for the south-eastern region of Australias EEZ.Funds for National marine resource surveys development of sustainability indicators and monitoring and rapid assessments of the biological resources of Australias oceans. The resulting information based was used to underpin effective regional integration for planning and management. These assessments also benefit industry by providing information on potential new resources such as deep-water fisheries and pharmaceuticals.Development of National Representative System of Marine Protected Areas.Development of Marine Parks and World Heritage Areas.Maritime Safety and Environment Protection PlanThe Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) has developed a strategy to prote ct the marine environment from shipping operations through improved environmental management of shipping and related activities(Stark, 2004). The strategy encompass designation of marine sensitive areas, promote improvement of waste reception facilities at ports, marinas and boat harbours, improve anti-fouling practices, management and piloting a national monitoring programme for marine debris, community and industry awareness, and support for the enhanced National Plan to Combat Pollution of the Sea by Oil and Other Noxious and Hazardous Substances (the National Plan) (AOP1, 1998). Under the AOP the Government committed to enhance maritime safety and highlighted the importance of enhancing regional cooperative arrangement for search and rescue, development and implementation of search and rescue arrangements implementation of the Global Maritime Distress Safety System(GMDSS), pursue consistent requirements for the use of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and mari time communications for small vessels(AOP2, 1998). To further ensure the Safety of Navigation, the Government committed to maintain efficient coast-effective maritime safety navigation services and infrastructure, expansion of the local area Differential Global Positioning Systems (DGPS) services technological development in marine navigation, and involvement in the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities and other international forums to ensure global navigational safety policies, standards and new technologies(AOP2, 1998).Maritime Surveillance and Security PlanTo ensure that there is an effective and efficient surveillance capacity for Australias marine jurisdictions and effective enforcement of national legislation throughout Australias marine jurisdictions. Under the Oceans Policy the Australian government continued to pursue through the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) and other to increase action addressing illegal fishin g in CCAMLR and adjacent waters increased surveillance and enforcement measures in the Great Barrier Reef continued to cooperate to review and rationalise effort involved in and capacity for surveillance and enforcement including reviewing legislation relating to enforcement in Australias marine jurisdictions(AOP2, 1998). The Oceans Policy highlighted that the Australian Defence Forces (ADF) tasks encompass safeguarding these areas, controlling of maritime approaches to exercise and protect Australias sovereignty and sovereign rights. This involve preparedness and contingency planning maritime surveillance and response fisheries law enforcement search and rescue hydrographic services and the Australian Oceanographic Data Centre (AODC)(AOP2, 1998).Maritime Sector Development PlanDuring AOP development process the Marine Industry Development Strategy was also announced. The Strategy highlighted what the Marine Industry is worth what should incur for further resourceful developments(AO P2,1998). It illustrated that 90 per cent of Australias oil and gas is sourced offshore that the shipbuilding industry supplies one third of the worlds high speed ferry market wild capture fisheries represent a major primary industry and that marine tourism is a booming industry(Vince, 2004). The Specific Measures Volume of Australia Oceans Policy underpinned several challenges facing the maritime sector and the various activities such as fisheries aquaculture offshore petroleum and minerals shipping marine tourism marine construction, engineering and other industries pharmaceutical, biotechnology and genetic resources and alternative energy resources. For meeting these challenges the policy proposed numerous activities under each one of them. For example to meet the shipping sector challenge to increase trade and regional development by delivering safe, efficient, competitive and environmentally responsible maritime infrastructure and shipping services(AOP2, 1998). The policy iden tified measures including regulatory reform of the maritime sector with a view to removing barriers to competition, rationalise jurisdictional arrangements, harmonise standards and promote mutual recognition and encourage continuous improvements in shipping and waterfront sectors to enhance the competitiveness of Australian trade and industry to continue Australia leading role in international trade and maritime forums to ensure access to competitive and efficient international shipping services is maintained(AOP2, 1998).Marine Education and Training PlanUnder Australias Marine Science and Technology Plan, NOO is responsible for providing advice to the Ministerial Board on marine research priorities relevant to the Oceans Policy to ensure that the marine research agencies are kept informed of the Governments emerging priorities(TFG, 2002). The NOMB is responsible to consider Government priorities for publicly funded marine research related to the implementation of the Oceans Policy including community capacity building, networking opportunities, and community participation in marine management, research and monitoring and data collection and provide opportunities for community representation on consultative committees in regard to marine resource management, the establishment of a new marine science research and teaching centre at Coffs Harbour support for the Australian, Pacific and Global Oceans Observing Systems establishment and operation of a Regional Office of the International Oceanographic Commission in Perth, Western Australia provision of quality maritime education and research and training and employment in jointly managed parks development of a long term marine education policy and programme for kindergarten to year 12 to be incorporated in curricula in all States and Territories development of relevant resource materials for use in schools and Technical and Further Education colleges in cooperation with professional bodies and support for the prov ision of quality practical educational material for teachers and students(AMSTP, 1999).National Maritime Information CenterTo improve monitoring and understanding of marine ecosystems and the impacts of resource use Australia government has developed the Australian Coastal Atlas, within the Environmental Resource Information Network (ERIN), to allow general access to adequate information for community involvement in oceans management as a fundamental element of the Australian Spatial Data Infrastructure(AOP2, 1998). Thus, the Australian government provided support for the Marine and Coastal Community Network to develop a comprehensive communication strategy to assist the public, industry and governments learn about and understand the role of Australias Oceans Policy. Also the government supported the Australian Surveying and Land Information Group (AUSLIGs) continuing development of the Australian Maritime Boundaries Information System as a national database of Australias maritime j urisdictional boundary data to provides Australias with an independent and scientifically credible information on Australias environment for decision-makers and the wider community(AOP2, 1998). AUSLIG is the Commonwealth focal point for coordination of geodetic information and works closely with State and Territory agencies, the Inter-governmental Committee on Surveying and Mapping (ICSM) and industry groups towards the provision of the highest quality geodetic infrastructure(AUSLIG, 2009). Moreover, AUSLIGs under the ocean policy is responsible for the development of a coordinated observations and methods to analyse and interpret the data that will make optimum use of information from remote and in situ measurements at the space and time scales required for effective monitoring, use, management and conservation(AOP2, 1998). It is clear that the lack of a comprehensive system of monitoring sites, and lack of long-term commitment to monitoring inshore and offshore, particularly on th e scale of large marine ecosystems has affected Australia ability to assess changes in the condition of the marine environment. Thus, AOP recognized that Integration of coastal, inshore and offshore monitoring activities is vital to National capacity for future assessments and maintenance of marine and coastal environments(AOP1, 1998).National Oceans ForumTo provide for Community representation and participation, the AOP established a National Oceans Advisory Group as a non-government consultative and advisory body to the National Oceans Ministerial Board(AOP1, 1998). The NOAG is responsible for promoting strategic management of the ocean environment and its resources to provide opportunities for community representation on consultative committees in regard to marine resource management and facilitate consultation with peak indigenous groups on the requirements for establishing a national consultative mechanism, such as an annual forum(AOP1, 1998). Thus, to promote implementation of Australia Oceans Policy, the policy called for holding a National Oceans Forum to coordinate across the agencies responsible for the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and a broad national cross-section of those with a stake in the management of Australia oceans(IOC, 2007).International CooperationGiven the dynamic nature of the marine environment, AOP recognized that the effective implementation of the Oceans Policy requires cooperation with immediate neighbours and other countries to address the transboundary impacts and improve regional cooperation on ocean issues(AOP1, 1998). Thus, AOP called for peaceful use of the oceans and cooperation in access for national and international scientific research and monitoring programmes cooperation with neighbouring countries and with industries to maximise resources improved cooperation and coordination between existing coastal mo

Protecting Against Internet Activists Essays -- Technology, Political

Internet activists are often times a section of people whom bear upon in the cyber world and collectively deny customers from accessing corporate web sites. The intention of these internet activists is often denial of service. While the intentions of traditional hackers are not moreover denial of service but stealing valuable insider information and entropy, internet activists only try to disrupt service.Organizations these days should guard against cyber-attacks on their web sites by having a very structured security policy. It is not just enough to declare a secure infrastructure setup as a one-time safari but continuous monitoring is necessary to ensure no security breach takes place. A well configured intrusion detection system is the world-class step to ensuring a network that is constantly monitored. Firewalls, constantly updated antivirus programs, frequent and prompt software updates in addition to penetration testing could help organizations falling luff to outsider a ttack.While organizations deal with trying to keep their business up and running through their websites, activists work hard trying to disrupt the offerings provided by these organizations to their customers. Distributed defensive structure of Service (DDoS) attacks are a major means of unsettling a business. A DDoS attack often begins with setting up an attack network. The attackers use tools like Nmap and Nessus and square up vulnerable machines which become secondary targets using which the attack on the victim is launched from. While organizations cannot prevent attackers from using these secondary targets certain mitigation strategies like agitate balancing, throttling or dropping requests are security countermeasures that could be applied to address such concerns. The post-inci... ... process should include questions about the location of servers on which the data gets stored. This is important because significant legal implications would exist depending on the country th e data is housed in. Also, the questions about who would manage the data and in which locations, identity access and privacy controls would have to be discussed about. Data encryption techniques that are used by the prospective providers would lead to a good deal of confidence in selecting a provider. Questions on data segregation will need to be asked as well. This would ensure that other clients of the same provider have their data segregated and separated out. The obliterate provider should also be asked details about its disaster recovery and business continuity plans. Service Level Agreements (SLA) should be well detailed and enter to avoid confusion and provide clarity.

Apollo vs. The Palette of Narmer Essay -- essays research papers

The two works of art that have been chosen to compare and contrast are The Palette Of Narmer and Apollo of Veii. The Palette Of Narmer dates back to the Hierakonpolis Dynasty 1 in 3100 BCE. The Palette of Narmer is interesting because it is the oldest historic work of art that stimulates a person, and is the earliest piece of art that uses hieroglyph. This artwork depicts the dawn of a new grow of man and his use of writing and pictographs in art. The statue of Apollo, from Veii comes from the Etruscan art period Apollo was created around 500 BCE. It was created by a very popular sculpture of his time, by the name of Vulca. The delicate technique of firing clay is fascinating. A sculptor of Vulcas ability was required to know how to construct a large figure so that it did not fall under its own weight. He had to know how to precisely regulate the temperature of a kiln large enough to fit a statue of some 6 ft tall, for a long period of time. The fact that to this day, Vulca is th e only Etruscan Sculpture whose works of art have survived the test of time, show his genius in his creations.The Palette Of Narmer is made of mudstone, which is a kind of shale. It is a flat stone with circular depressions on it. Palettes were common utensil of the time. It is believed that this flat stone was used for grinding eye paint. This eye paint was used for both men and women to prevent eye infections and possibly also used to reduce the glare of the bright cease sun. The Palette Of Narmer...