The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement enters into force in January 2026. It becomes the first global treaty to protect marine life in international waters.
The agreement sets legally binding rules for the sustainable use of ocean resources on the high seas. It applies beyond national jurisdictions.
The treaty covers marine genetic resources and benefit sharing. It introduces area-based management tools, including marine protected areas. It strengthens environmental impact assessments. It also supports capacity building and technology transfer.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez welcomed the milestone. He said countries had shown they can work together to manage the ocean sustainably. He added that IMO is ready to support implementation within its remit.
Shipping already operates under strict global rules. Environmental, safety, and security standards apply throughout a vessel’s voyage.
IMO has developed more than 50 binding treaties to support sustainable shipping. Flag, coastal, and port State control enforce these rules.
Key IMO instruments include MARPOL, the Ballast Water Management Convention, and the London Convention and Protocol. These measures help prevent pollution and the spread of invasive species.
IMO is also developing a new binding framework on ship biofouling. The goal is to further reduce the transfer of invasive aquatic species.
The organization has adopted additional protections. These include Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas, Special Areas, and Emission Control Areas. IMO has also issued guidance to reduce underwater ship noise.
The BBNJ Agreement follows its adoption in June 2023. More than 80 countries have ratified it to date.
