As U.S. sea power wanes, Democrats poised to push for UN’s Law of the Sea Treaty

Original Article: WorldTribune

2 Responses to “As U.S. sea power wanes, Democrats poised to push for UN’s Law of the Sea Treaty”

  1. Don Mitchel says:

    http://en.msa.gov.cn/msa/features/root/02/1243216484886/1242798322 Dear Sirs, The reason we can not get our Federal government to act on ballast dumping is because of the economic domination that trade has over human health. Although the environmental aspect is a disaster we need to address the human health problem as the above web address shows others are doing. I hope the US will use its sovereign right to protect its citizens from H1N1 the same as China appears to have. Maybe they seem to understand the cost savings of preventive action on health care. Interesting how ocean currents out beyond even the two hundred mile limit could carry disease, toxins, nuclear waste water etc.to islands, and areas of ocean development (mining) and exploration. What temperature activated virus, or other pathogens may be released as the ancient ice melts around the shared area of the poles? The day of designer algae is already here and with new pathogens being released from the ancient fresh water ice melting they could act as a host or their may be existing marine life that will work. The idea that the IMO can do more than promote clean ballast water technology is a throw back to a time when smaller maritime nations could dominate the military power of the sea. Yes we need technology on an international basis, but since 911 we can not afford the risk of our safety, health, and environment, being in only the hands of an international organization of foreign sea captains and state laws. H1N1 is one pathogen we were lucky with, what will happen when one like bird flue mutates from bird excrement in water near ships taking on ballast water, will our country be able to afford to use our military to protect us, under our version, of the law of the sea? All governments need to be involved in inspection, technology, and surveillance.
    Sincerely
    Don Mitchel

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