In a resolution approved by the Parliament’s plenary in early October, MEPs called on the European Union to be a leader in protecting, restoring and raising awareness of the crucial role of the oceans in combating climate change and maintaining a habitable planet for all.

The conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity, including areas beyond national jurisdiction, is of crucial importance and was recognised by MEPs, who regret that, despite progress the High Seas Treaty has not been adopted. They therefore call on the Commission and Member States to urgently resume negotiations on the Treaty so that an ambitious, effective and future-proof international framework can be adopted as soon as possible.

The European Parliament adopted a resolution on strengthening ocean governance and the protection of marine biodiversity in preparation for the forthcoming COP27 and COP15. The resolution calls for the promotion of a sustainable blue economy, as healthy oceans are key to the long-term sustainability of many activities, including tourism. MEPs underlined their willingness to adhere to the European Green Deal by supporting ambitious measures, but taking into account the social needs linked to the transition towards a sustainable blue economy. Among others, the European Parliament calls on the European Commission to support the reskilling and upskilling of the existing workforce, as well as the attraction of new people.

MEPs also underline the importance of the oceans in the fight against climate change and for the full achievement of the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the Convention on Biological Diversity. In this context, they recall Parliament's call for the EU to push for an ambitious post-2020 global biodiversity framework at COP15 to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, including through legally binding global restoration and protection targets of at least 30% by 2030.

You can read the report here and the full press release here.