ABSTRACT
The oceans are one of the world's most important remaining common resources, and like all commons (see p. 11)— including Antarctica (p. 448)—they are subjected
BOX 16.16 TSUNAMIS
Tsunamis are giant waves (not tidal waves) that are triggered by submarine earthquakes or volcanic eruptions (see Box 6.13) and move across the ocean at speeds of more than 700 km h-1. The word 'tsunami' is Japanese for 'harbour wave'. In the open ocean, these giant waves have long wavelengths and short heights (perhaps about a metre), but when they arrive in shallow water they slow down and build up. This creates large, powerful waves that can sweep inland and cause widespread damage and destruction, with great loss of life.
