MEPC84-9: IDENTIFICATION AND PROTECTION OF SPECIAL AREAS, ECAS, AND PSSAS

Strengthening the PSSA framework to improve collaboration with the BBNJ Agreement, and to better address climate, biodiversity and pollution and advance equity in ocean governance

Executive Summary:
This document highlights the need for a 20-year review of the Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas framework to align with global biodiversity and climate targets and the recently ratified 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 The co-sponsors recommend an explicit legal framework be developed with a comprehensive suite of potential mandatory and voluntary associated protective measures, requirements for community engagement, a management framework, monitoring and enforcement protocols, and updated application guidance.