ABSTRACT

On historical time scales plate tectonic theory as such is not useful, but the implications of plate dynamics for sea management are important. First, the presence of mineral resources on seabeds and subsoils depends on the geological stage which the coastal and ocean areas have reached. Secondly, plate move­ ment, including convergence, divergence and subduction, is the main cause of seismicity and volcanism, which turn has a wide ranging implications, such as the presence and diffusion of evaporite rocks and risks of natural disasters.