Ocean protection agreed
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The Commonwealth has set a bold course for ocean protection with a landmark agreement.
The Commonwealth’s 56 nations have adopted the Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration for One Resilient Common Future (PDF), aiming to protect and restore oceans amid growing climate challenges.
Agreed during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the declaration calls for ambitious measures to address climate change, pollution, and over-exploitation of marine resources.
Key commitments include recognition of national maritime boundaries despite sea-level rise, protection of 30 per cent of oceans, and restoration of 30 per cent of degraded marine ecosystems by 2030.
It urges rapid finalisation of the Global Plastics Treaty, ratification of the high-seas biodiversity agreement (BBNJ), and implementation of coastal adaptation strategies. Sustainable ocean management, reducing maritime emissions, and boosting marine renewable energy are also highlighted.
“It is fitting that our first ocean declaration is adopted in the Blue Pacific continent given climate change has been recognised as the single greatest threat to the security and well-being of our people,” said Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland added; “This document now sets the standard for forthcoming international meetings, generating momentum for ocean protection”.
Experts have responded with mixed reactions.
Professor Jonathan Gardner from Victoria University of Wellington described the declaration as significant but noted its lack of specific timelines or legally binding commitments.
He also pointed out the absence of deep-sea mining discussions, despite its environmental risks and potential economic benefits for member states.
Sione Tekiteki, a lecturer at Auckland University of Technology, viewed the declaration as “expected” given the need for compromise within the Commonwealth’s diverse membership.
He criticised its climate targets as “underwhelming” and lacking clear provisions for statehood preservation amid sea-level rise, an issue crucial to Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Professor Simon Thrush from the University of Auckland praised the declaration’s broad scope but emphasised that “real commitment, real leadership, and real action” are vital for achieving its goals.
The Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration builds on the 2018 Commonwealth Blue Charter, which aimed at sustainable ocean management.
It was anticipated after the 2022 CHOGM in Rwanda and refined at the first Commonwealth Ocean Ministers Meeting in Cyprus earlier this year.
The Commonwealth encompasses one-third of the world’s population, with 49 coastal nations and 25 being SIDS.
With COP29 approaching, the declaration is expected to shape global ocean and climate discussions.
However, experts warn the true test will be in translating these commitments into enforceable measures and tangible results.