Oceans harbor significant biodiversity and provide immense value and variety of ecosystems. The pervasive global problem of plastics pollution and increasing pressures from human activities are threatening the standard functioning and biodiversity though. The world faces a global emergency over its oceans, with scientists warning that we face a mass extinction of marine life unless 30% of global ocean space is placed within marine protected areas by 2030. Rajat Ampat has been one of the success stories of MPAs.
We really need to give priority to addressing ocean issues in an integrated, interdisciplinary way. The current international law framework for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity is fragmented and has regulatory and governance gaps and weaknesses. In recognition that it is insufficient to fully address these weaknesses, States have committed to adopting a new instrument for strong, legally binding protections for our seas. This instrument seeks to establish a globally-enforceable mandate necessary to ensure recognition of the interconnectedness of the ocean and establish the role of States as stewards in addressing the issues.