Sustainable Management and Preservation Of Oceans

Sustainable Management and Preservation Of Oceans : India's ambitions for a blue economy, alongside the forthcoming UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) and global efforts like the Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, focus on ensuring the sustainable management and preservation of ocean resources."

• About UNOC3 - Scheduled for June 9–13, 2025, in Nice, France, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica.

o Participants: Around 100 heads of state, along with thousands of scientists, researchers, and activists.

o Goals: Focused on operational, action-driven discussions addressing key areas such as governance, financing, and knowledge sharing.

o Significance: Similar to the Paris Agreement, this conference could lead to an international pact aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

• About BBNJ Agreement: Also known as the ‘High Seas Treaty’, is an international treaty under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

o Aim: To manage and protect the high seas, which cover over 60% of the ocean, addressing issues like hydrocarbon pollution, illegal fishing, and the protection of endangered species.

o Agreement: Agreed upon in March 2023 and is open for signature for two years starting September 2023.

o Features: It would define and demarcate marine protected areas in biodiversity-rich zones of oceans that are under stress.

o Enforcement: It will be an international legally binding treaty after it enters force 120 days after the 60th ratification, acceptance, approval or accession.

ü Parties cannot exercise sovereign rights over marine resources derived from high seas.

o Significance: Enhance India’s strategic presence in areas beyond EEZ.

ü Contribute to achieving several SDGs, particularly SDG14 (Life Below Water); 

ü Strengthen India’s marine conservation efforts, open new avenues for scientific research and development etc.

ü Promotes using traditional knowledge and best available scientific knowledge.

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