The Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity holds ocean polluters accountable and establishes mechanisms to resolve potential disputes. Historic agreement to protect the world’s oceans enters into force this week Climate and environment
This week, on January 17, a historic document will come into force – the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction. It was adopted in June 2023. Since then, 145 countries have signed it and 81 countries have formally ratified it.
Based on the principles laid down in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the agreement significantly strengthens the legal framework for the protection of two-thirds of the world’s oceans. In particular, it establishes the necessary framework for international and inter-institutional cooperation in the development of the ocean and its resources.
Effective and timely implementation of this Agreement will make a significant contribution to the implementation of the ocean-related Sustainable Development Goals and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
The ocean needs protection
Toxic chemicals and millions of tons of plastic waste are inundating coastal ecosystems, killing or severely harming fish, sea turtles, seabirds and mammals. In addition, dangerous particles end up in the foods that people eat.
More than 17 million tons of plastic entered the world’s oceans in 2021, accounting for 85 percent of marine debris. This figure is projected to double or triple every year. Without action, there could be more plastic in the sea than fish by 2050.
The agreement holds ocean polluters accountable and establishes mechanisms to resolve potential disputes. In accordance with the provisions of the document, for any planned activity in waters beyond their national jurisdiction, parties are required to assess the potential impact of their actions on the environment.
Scientists estimate that almost 200 thousand species of marine organisms have been identified to date, but the true number may be much higher. Experts from the UN Environment Program note that humanity knows more about the Moon than about the depths of the ocean. The treaty is intended to promote international cooperation in the study of ocean waters.