Detailed recommendations were submitted and an Executive Order has intiated action to develop a system of MPAs . Yet, the USA has no comprehensive system to protect this unequaled national treasure. Every bite of food we eat, every drop of water we drink, every breath of air that we breathe is produced by living things, and it would require more than the Gross Domestic Product of all the world's nations combined to duplicate these services.
Marine ecosystems are home to many kinds of living things that occur nowhere else.
They protect shorelines from erosion, break down wastes, moderate climate and maintain a breathable atmosphere. Marine species provide a livelihood for millions of people, food, medicines, raw materials and recreation for billions worldwide, and are intrinsically important. There is no doubt that the sea's biological diversity and ecological integrity are in trouble. There are federal and state programs with mandates to protect particular aspects of the marine environment, and we recognize that the existing regulatory structure has promise. However, each program was created independently, and in combination they do not provide a comprehensive, integrated approach to marine ecosystem protection.