The Ocean Day at #COP16Colombia in Cali was a true source of inspiration for our ocean community. Leaders, indigenous representatives, environmental advocates, and youth came together, convinced that nature deserves our attention and protection.
Guest speakers such as Peter Thomson, @Razan Al Mubarak, Vidar Helgesen, Astrid Schomaker, Carole Martinez, Remi Parmentier, Siri Bjune, Susan C. Gardner, Ph.D., and Loreley Picourt shared insightful perspectives on the ocean’s essential role in achieving the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (#KMGBF). They emphasized the commitment to conserving and managing 30% of coastal and marine areas by 2030, a crucial target to ensure the future health of our oceans.
Discussions focused on several key points, including:
- The adoption of a clear strategy to achieve the 30X30 goal
- The urgency of ratifying the BBNJ treaty (the agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction)
- A call to action for a plastics treaty
- Synergy between climate and nature: The importance of an integrated approach to climate and nature agendas, including initiatives like the high-level panel for a sustainable ocean economy and Ocean Breakthrough.
- Integrated governance and environmental conventions: Harmonized governance is essential to ensure effective synergy among various biodiversity agreements.
- Inclusion of local communities: The participation of communities, especially fishers, is crucial for the sustainable management of marine resources, as is respecting traditional knowledge.
- The importance of oceanographic data and science: Utilizing relevant data and mobilizing scientific research are vital for effective management and sustainable development of oceans.
- Strengthening maritime law enforcement: Enhanced monitoring and compliance at sea are vital to protect biodiversity and support the implementation of the GBF.
- The role of civil society: Civil society plays a key role in unifying efforts for ocean preservation.
