On the provisions of the BBNJ Agreement addressing the impacts of climate change

There is an interaction between climate change and marine biological diversity. Climate change induces alterations in marine ecosystems, encompassing the acidification of seawater, ocean deoxygenation, and the warming of the oceans, which engender numerous adverse impacts on marine biological diversity. The 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 (hereinafter the BBNJ Agreement) is a significant international instrument within the realm of the law of the sea. Throughout its negotiation process, due consideration was given by the international community to address issues related to climate change. The principles and specific institutional objectives outlined in the BBNJ Agreement clearly emphasize enhancing ocean resilience towards the impacts of climate change. Moreover, the provisions concerning the benefit sharing of marine genetic resources, area-based management tools, environmental impact assessments, and capacity-building and the transfer of marine technology stipulated in this agreement are expected to effectively tackle operational-level challenges posed by climate change. To advance the shared interests of humanity, it is imperative to enhance procedures and operations of relevant mechanisms that facilitate coordinated efforts in ocean governance and climate governance.