Since living memory the oceans have served mankind as food resource and for transport needs. The twentieth century saw the beginning of the exploitation of marine mineral resources, and research on deep sea mining started. However, so far marine and shipping technology mainly focused on the optimization of transport.

>>> read more ...

Although the efficiency of shipping present the backbone of globalization, the unique performance regarding transport volume in relation to energy consumption is questioned by environmental impacts of shipping. Major concerns concentrate on noxious exhaust gas generated by burning residual heavy fuels. Others on the introduction of invasive species via ballast water.

>>> read more...

>>> read more...

"You can safeguard only what you are familiar with". Marine tourism may play an important role in the efforts to protect the oceans if offered and performed the right way. Providing for information and hands-on experience for the understanding of the complexity and diversity of marine eco systems while on board are successful approaches. The Wadden Sea Safari project (www.franzius-weserkahn.de) may serve as an example.

>>> read more...