Ocean Governance Transformations in the Anthropocene

The Anthropocene epoch, characterized by significant human impact on Earth’s geology and ecosystems, necessitates a revaluation of ocean governance frameworks. This paper explores the evolving landscape of ocean governance in response to unprecedented environmental changes and societal demands. Critical challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental change underscores the need for innovative governance structures that can adapt to dynamic and often unpredictable marine environments. Traditional governance models, which have largely been state-centric and sectoral, are increasingly inadequate in addressing the complex, transboundary nature of oceanic issues. This paper examines the shift towards more holistic and integrated governance approaches and discusses the role of: i) multi-level governance, where local, national, and international actors collaborate to create more resilient and adaptive management systems, and ii) reflexive governance, which involves re-evaluating the organization and execution of management systems and focuses on developing the ability to reorient, redirect, and learn, thereby creating new management frameworks that can preemptively avoid repeating past mistakes. Furthermore, the paper addresses the legal, policy, and political implications of these governance transformations in assessing effectiveness of efforts to promote sustainable ocean use and conservation. In doing so, this paper argues that transformative governance in the Anthropocene requires a paradigm shift towards more integrated, adaptive, reflexive, and inclusive approaches. In conceptualizing and developing such an approach, we can better navigate the complexities of sustainability and ocean management in this new epoch and find a path towards wellbeing for people and the planet.