The Treaty on Biodiversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) aims to protect and sustainably use marine biological diversity in areas outside national jurisdictions, covering nearly two-thirds of the world’s ocean surfaces. These areas, open for common use by all nations under international law, are regarded as a global common good.
Negotiations for this treaty, which began in 2018, followed years of discussions to establish clear and effective legal frameworks for ABNJ areas. These intense negotiations led to regulations concerning both marine genetic resources (MGRs) and area-based management tools (ABMTs), including Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
The treaty’s preamble and main text emphasize the importance of combating the loss of biodiversity and degradation of ocean ecosystems, especially those resulting from climate changes like warming, deoxygenation, acidification of the oceans, and plastic pollution.
Marine genetic resources are particularly significant due to their potential in producing biochemicals used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and dietary supplements. The regulation of these resources, including the fair sharing of benefits from their use, was a key negotiation point. It was ultimately agreed that these benefits would include both non-monetary and monetary aspects, and a committee would be established to oversee transparent and equitable benefit-sharing.
The treaty also highlights the importance of further scientific research and technology transfer, especially for developing countries, to ensure equal access to new discoveries and marine resources.
On June 19, 2023, after two decades of international collaboration, nearly 200 UN member states unanimously adopted the treaty. This international document, consisting of a preamble, 12 parts, 76 articles, and 2 annexes, reflects a wide range of engagement from stakeholders including scientists, local communities, and the private sector.
For the treaty to come into effect, it must be ratified by at least 60 countries by 2025. Governments worldwide are urged to quickly ratify this Global Ocean Treaty to achieve the goal of protecting at least 30% of international waters through the creation of marine protected areas. This will not only enhance biodiversity protection but also prevent the emergence of new, destructive industries like underwater mining, which could jeopardize these efforts.
*Full name of treaty – Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction
About the author
Grzegorz Bubak
My fascination with marine aquariums began over two decades ago when I stumbled upon an article about this topic in a magazine. Since then, the underwater world has become my obsession and passion, shaping my everyday life. I started my adventure with marine aquariums with soft corals, which were my first step into this fascinating world. Over time, captivated by the diversity and beauty of SPS corals, I decided to focus on their cultivation, which continues to fill me with constant wonder.
Thanks to my experience and passion for marine aquariums, I am ready to share my knowledge and expertise with other enthusiasts in this field. I am happy to be part of the Reef Pedia community, which serves as an invaluable source of information for all marine aquarium lovers.