A comprehensive assessment of important science and societal issues that are likely to arise in marine science and ocean management in the first 20 years of the 21st century. The text brings together the world's ocean scientists and researchers to analyze the state of marine science and technology, identify key scientific issues for sustainable development, and evaluate the capability of scientists, governments and private-sector stakeholders to respond to those issues. It is sponsored by The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), The Scientific Committee on Oceanic Research (SCOR), and The Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment (SCOPE).