Global Change in Marine Systems analyses and appraises societal and governing responses to change affecting marine social and ecological systems around the world. Acknowledging the stakes – local societies that depend on marine systems for food, livelihoods and wellbeing can suffer great hardship – this book highlights and explains similarities and distinctions between successful and unsuccessful responses.

The book presents an analytical framework (‘I-ADApT’) that enables decision-makers to consider possible responses to global change based on experiences elsewhere. Here an international group of researchers from the natural and social sciences apply the ‘I-ADApT’ framework to twenty enlightening case studies, covering a wide range of marine systems challenged by critical global change issues around the world.

The innovative research presented here guides marine system researchers, policymakers, decision-makers and practitioners in responding to global change in a timely and appropriate manner. It will appeal to students and researchers interested in environmental studies, natural resources, marine resources, environmental sociology, sustainability, and climate change.