Uses of the Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic Ocean serves four major human purposes:

• Shipping: Primary intercontinental route linking Americas, Europe, Africa—container ships, tankers.
• Fishing: Tuna, cod, salmon, lobster; major commercial industry feeding millions.
• Mining: Offshore oil, gas, minerals; growing energy sector.
• Tourism: Beaches, scenery, wildlife; Caribbean, Bahamas, Canary Islands as prime destinations.