Legal Definitions - exclusive economic zone

Exclusive Economic Zone

An Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is an area of ocean that extends up to 200 nautical miles from a country's coastline. Within this zone, the country has special rights to explore, use, and manage the natural resources found in the water and on the ocean floor. These resources can include fish, oil, gas, and minerals.

For example, Canada has an EEZ in the Arctic Ocean, which allows them to manage the fishing industry and oil and gas exploration in that area. Similarly, Australia has an EEZ around its coastline, which gives them control over the natural resources found in the Great Barrier Reef.

Another example is the EEZ of the United States, which covers a vast area of the Pacific Ocean around Hawaii. This zone allows the US to regulate fishing and protect marine life in that region.

The examples illustrate how countries can use their Exclusive Economic Zones to manage and protect the natural resources found in the ocean. By having control over these areas, countries can ensure that these resources are used sustainably and for the benefit of their citizens.