IMO plays a critical role in global efforts to protect
biodiversity in and around the world's oceans. A video launched during the
United Nations Summit on Biodiversity (30 September) highlights the significant
contribution of the Organisation to protecting marine biodiversity and
ecosystems.
An essential aspect of this work relates to tackling
invasive species, which are recognised as one of the greatest threats to
biodiversity. IMO conventions and guidelines on the management of ships’
ballast water, biofouling and anti-fouling systems help prevent the transfer of
aquatic organisms to new environments via shipping. This reduces the risk of
invasion from non-indigenous species that can harm local ecosystems.
IMO treaties also play a fundamental role in limiting the
dumping of waste at sea, which helps minimise marine pollution and limit
impacts on biodiversity. The London Convention and London Protocol ban disposal
of wastes at sea except in very specific cases. They also prohibit the dumping
of radioactive and industrial waste.
The IMO regulatory framework grants additional protection to
areas known as Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs), with special measures
to preserve their vulnerable ecosystems, such as ship routeing. To this day, 15
areas have been designated as PSSAs, including the Great Barrier Reef and the
Galapagos Islands.
IMO works in partnership with other UN entities and
international organizations, actively contributing to various inter-agency
processes and networks, promoting an “all hands on deck” approach to protect
biodiversity and support sustainable development.