Abstract
The Seto Inland Sea is the largest inland sea in Japan and characterized by highly enclosed topography. The quality of aquatic environment such as water quality and sediment quality had deteriorated especially since late 60's due to the industrial development and urbanization along the coast. Historical changes of the environment and countermeasures employed were reviewed. Present status of the water and sedimet quality was depicted. Effects of aquaculture and collection of sea sand as material for construction on coastal environment and on coastal ecosytem were pointed out. Since the environmental policy on the management of the Seto Inland Sea is expected to be changed in near future, perspective is given and the new idea of comprehensive approach for the environmental management is proposed. Research plan on the sustainable biological production of the Seto Inland Sea was also proposed.
