As we face unprecedented threats to our oceans, international cooperation has emerged as a critical tool in combating pollution, climate change, and marine ecosystem degradation. Recent developments highlight the urgency and potential of collaborative efforts:
The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution
In March 2022, the UN Environment Assembly adopted a historic resolution to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution[6]. This initiative, set to conclude negotiations by the end of 2024, represents a significant step towards global action on marine plastic pollution. The upcoming second part of the fifth session (INC-5.2) scheduled for August 5-14, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, will be crucial in finalizing this agreement[6].
Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML)
The GPML, launched at the Rio+20 conference in 2012, has become a leading global coordination effort[5]. It brings together international agencies, governments, businesses, academia, and NGOs to address marine debris. The partnership focuses on sharing knowledge, identifying gaps, and harnessing expertise to reduce and prevent marine litter from both land and sea-based sources[9].
Regional Seas Conventions and Action Plans
These frameworks provide a mechanism for countries to coordinate efforts, share resources, and build partnerships to deliver a healthy ocean[1]. They support progress towards global ambitions like the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Aichi Targets[1].
MARPOL Convention
The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) continues to be the main international convention addressing marine pollution from ships[2]. Its ongoing updates and amendments reflect the evolving nature of maritime environmental challenges.
Trash Free Waters International
EPA’s Trash Free Waters (TFW) initiative has demonstrated success in addressing marine litter globally[3]. By bringing together stakeholders to identify and prioritize projects, TFW helps countries overcome challenges such as policy gaps, limited resources, and leadership turnover[3].
Looking Ahead
As we approach the conclusion of plastic pollution treaty negotiations in 2025, the international community must maintain momentum. The upcoming agreement could include both binding and voluntary approaches, emphasizing country-driven national action plans[10].
The success of these initiatives hinges on continued commitment to information sharing, scientific assessment, and coordinated action. By strengthening international cooperation, we can more effectively address the complex challenges facing our oceans and work towards a sustainable marine future.
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[1] https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/why-international-cooperation-key-preserving-worlds-oceans
[2] https://www.imo.org/en/about/Conventions/Pages/International-Convention-for-the-Prevention-of-Pollution-from-Ships-(MARPOL).aspx
[3] https://www.epa.gov/international-cooperation/protecting-global-marine-environment
[4] https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Environment/Pages/London-Convention-Protocol.aspx
[5] https://marinedebris.noaa.gov/our-work/international-collaboration
[6] https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution
[7] https://19january2021snapshot.epa.gov/international-cooperation/protecting-marine-environment
[8] https://www.rifs-potsdam.de/en/output/dossiers/marineplastic
[9] https://www.unep.org/explore-topics/oceans-seas/global-partnership-plastic-pollution-and-marine-litter
[10] https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF12690