The Role of the International Seabed Authority in Protecting Marine Environment

The International Seabed Authority (ISA) was established under the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea 1982 (UNCLOS) and the 1994 Agreement Relating to the Implementation of Part XI of UNCLOS. The International Seabed Authority is responsible for providing effective protection for the marine environment from the harmful effects of activities in the Area under Article 145 of UNCLOS. This article discusses the management and regulatory role of the ISA in developing appropriate rules, regulations, and procedures for the prevention, reduction, and control of pollution and other hazards to the marine environment; protection and conservation of the natural resources of the Area and the prevention of damage to the flora and fauna of the marine environment.