While sustaining this great variety of plant and animal life, the marine environment is subject to the effects of human activity as well. The oceans are recreational areas, trade routes, science and research facilities, and areas of defence and security activity. The ocean floor is explored and mined for minerals and natural gas and oil reserves. The marine environment is an area in which many different interests are served. Marine resources need to be used in ways that don't damage the marine environment, otherwise ecosystems and habitats can be lost and marine biodiversity can be diminished.
Marine environments are subject to influences from land, sea and air.
The Marine environmental performance indicators are designed to measure and monitor human activities and their effects on the marine environment.