The world’s first global treaty aimed at protecting ocean life in international waters will come into force on January 17, 2026. This legally binding Agreement, known as the BBNJ Agreement, establishes rules for the sustainable use and management of marine resources beyond national jurisdictions.
Key areas of the treaty include the fair sharing of marine genetic resources, implementation of area-based management tools like marine protected areas, conducting environmental impact assessments, and promoting capacity-building and the transfer of marine technology.
To ensure the protection of the marine environment, ships must adhere to strict regulations throughout their voyages. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has developed over 50 binding treaties, such as MARPOL and the International Ballast Water Management Convention, to prevent pollution and the transfer of invasive species. Additionally, the IMO is creating a new framework to address ship biofouling.
The BBNJ Agreement, adopted in June 2023 after extensive negotiations, has already garnered support from over 80 nations, marking a significant milestone in marine conservation efforts. This framework complements existing protective measures by the IMO, including the designation of Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs) to minimize marine pollution.
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