Active international co-operation, such as within the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea, is critical in order to get feedback on the methods used in Iceland, as well as for knowledge sharing. It must be ensured that the harvesting of marine resources can continue and that the ocean can in the future serve its multi-faceted role, including that within the global ecosystem. Pollution and the conceivable impact of climate change must be prevented from threatening the marine biosphere. Over-fishing, where it occurs, should be halted. The vital interests of the Icelandic people are at stake.
Few nations are more dependent on the marine biosphere.
Fisheries and related activities are the foundation of the Icelandic economy, and 75 per cent of all Iceland's merchandise exports is derived from marine products. Although there is still scope for improvement, Iceland has made a stand and adopted measures that have halted over-fishing and reduced marine pollution. This has been achieved in harmony with industry, fishermen and the general public. Although marine pollution is negligible in the fishing grounds off Iceland, many coastal regions of the world are under threat from growing pollution, which can be traced to population growth, and increasing production of hazardous substances. This represents one of the greatest threats to the marine biosphere, and it is important to insist on tougher international action against marine pollution.