For land-locked and coastal states alike, the maritime dimension of national interests has increased dramatically in importance in recent years. Pressure on food and energy resources have coincided with an increase in the global population and insatiable demands for fish and minerals. Maritime conflict remains an ever-present possibility. Originally published in 1980, this book brings together in a single volume expert contributions on the central issues and areas of concern: The offshore exploration of oil and gas, fisheries, world shipping, the exploitation of deep seabed resources, marine pollution and contemporary maritime legal problems. The book outlines the problems, identifies conflicts and examines the variety of methods used by states to resolve them, including national and international laws and organisations, bilaterial and multilateral diplomacy and the increasing use of regional bodies. The Maritime Dimension will be of use to students and policy-makers in international law, environmental and energy studies and international relations.