The Conservation of the Seas and Oceans is Highlighted at the UN in Geneva

H.E. Ms. Elisabeth Laurin, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of France;  H.E. Ms. Carole Lanteri, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Monaco and Ms. Diana Rizzolio of the Geneva Environment Network and moderator of the event ©DR

As part of World Oceans Day, the Permanent Mission of Monaco to the United Nations Office in Geneva, in association with the Missions of France and Morocco, organised a conference on 9 June entitled“Healthy Oceans for a Better Life,” with the aim of raising international Geneva’s awareness of issues related to the conservation of these ecosystems.

This conference, which opened with a video message from H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince, was an opportunity to take stock of the state of science with regard to the oceans and the threats the oceans face, such as warming and acidification.

It was also an opportunity to address the sustainable management of the oceans.  In this regard, the role that marine protected areas can play in conserving biodiversity was emphasised.

Similarly, the United Nations Environment Programme took the opportunity to launch its report on “the blue economy” at this meeting.

Furthermore, in order to provide concrete examples of the impact of climate change on traditional ways of life, Ms. Cerny, from the Cerny Inuit Art Foundation, gave a presentation on works of art by contemporary artists from the Arctic Circle.

Finally, pupils from the International Lycée of Ferney-Voltaire presented the resolution on the seas and oceans that they adopted at the last Model United Nations in January 2016.

The presence of Mr. Michael Møller, Director General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, should also be noted, as well as that of numerous representatives from both the diplomatic world and civil society.

As a reminder, the oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface and are essential for human life.  In this respect, the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans are enshrined in Goal 14 of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.  This Agenda is a road map for the international community, with the aim of promoting sustainable development.