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<p>The UK is a world leader on ocean protection. The UK is championing a target to
protect at least 30% of the global ocean by 2030 and working to secure its adoption
at the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Conference of Parties later this year
where the post-2020 global biodiversity framework will be adopted. In support of this
target, the UK leads the Global Ocean Alliance and is the Ocean Co-Chair (alongside
France and Costa Rica) of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People.</p><p>
</p><p>We are also playing an active role in negotiations to conclude a new agreement,
under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, on the conservation and sustainable
use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (“the BBNJ
Agreement”). We are pressing for an ambitious BBNJ Agreement to be concluded this
year that includes provisions for the designation of globally recognised Marine Protected
Areas in areas beyond national jurisdiction.</p><p> </p><p>The UK believes the whole
ocean should be sustainably managed to allow the marine environment and sustainable
marine economies to thrive. Effective MPAs can cover a range of protection measures
including highly protected no-catch sites and those that deliver conservation outcomes
alongside sustainable economic activities.</p><p> </p><p>Accountability with effective
planning, reporting and review mechanisms will be essential to delivering the post-2020
global biodiversity framework. That is why the UK, in partnership with Norway, is
leading a programme of workshops to provide space for discussions between Parties
to enhance planning, reporting and review mechanisms to strengthen the implementation
mechanisms of the post-2020 global biodiversity framework and the CBD.</p><p> </p><p>To
deliver on an ambitious the post-2020 global biodiversity framework, it is essential
that the framework is supported by a global uplift in financing for nature and capacity-building.
Mobilising resources from all sources (public and private), and at all levels (domestic
and international) will be vital to supporting implementation of the goals and targets.</p><p>
</p><p>The UK is a major contributor to the Global Environment Facility and wants
to see it become the Financial Mechanism for the BBNJ Agreement as it is for the CBD.
The UK’s new Blue Planet Fund will also provide additional support for marine and
ocean protection for developing countries, complementing the successes of the Commonwealth
Marine Economies Programme and Blue Belt Programme for UK Overseas Territories.</p><p>
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