Managing institutional interlinkages for the protection of marine environment in the East Asian seas region and beyond: The case of marine plastic pollution

Abstract

The protection of the marine environment in the East Asian region (EAS region) faces a significant challenge from marine plastic pollution (MPP), highlighting the need for effective regulations and management by regional institutions. Employing empirical research methods, we examine the existing variation of institutional architectures and their regulatory measures regarding MPP in this region. Our study reveals regional institutions and initiatives established to address marine environmental protection against this issue, resulting in a variety of complex and overlapping regulations and policies. While these efforts show positive impacts, gaps in implementing regulations and policies remain significant. Managing institutional interlinkages is crucial to enhancing the effectiveness and accountability of efforts against MPP. In this context, we propose the concept of interplay management as a strategy to improve these efforts in the EAS region. Furthermore, our research highlights the necessity of implementing the concept of polycentric governance in future global agreements on plastic pollution, including marine environments. This approach aims to foster better cooperation and coordination among regions and institutions involved in marine environmental protection against MPP.