Summary
This synthesis provides the first comprehensive global baseline quantification of marine built infrastructure by integrating disparate data sources. As of 2018, marine structures occupied at least 32,000 km² globally, with environmental effects extending across 1.0–3.4 million km² of seascape. Projections indicate 50–70% expansion in affected seascape by 2028, establishing critical metrics for tracking future marine human development.
Regional applicability
The UK, with extensive coastlines and Exclusive Economic Zones, is subject to substantial marine construction activity (ports, offshore energy, aquaculture). These global findings provide a methodological framework and baseline against which UK-specific marine development impacts can be assessed and monitored.
Key measures
Physical footprint area of marine structures (km²); seascape modification area (km²); proportion of global Exclusive Economic Zones affected; projected expansion rates by 2028
Outcomes reported
The study quantified the physical footprint of marine built structures (at least 32,000 km² as of 2018) and the broader seascape modification around them (1.0–3.4 million km² in 2018). It projected 50–70% expansion in affected seascape by 2028 for power, aquaculture, cables and tunnels infrastructure.
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