ABSTRACT
Seas and oceans are significant climate regulators. They provide food and employment for millions of people around the world and are critical for the environment. Historically, oceans have been viewed and utilized as large disposal sites for all types of litter and waste. In one way or the other, litter and waste always end up in the sea. Coastal cities, industrialization and population growth have contributed to the global deterioration of coastal and marine ecosystems. Presently, as a result of an increasing global trend, Peru and other countries have started to pay closer attention to seas and oceans and understand the role they play on several fronts. A series of international instruments such as the Honolulu Strategy to prevent global marine debris and other national frameworks are now in place in Peru to address marine pollution. This chapter presents some ideas and reflection around this relatively recent issue of interest.
