The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) recently highlighted the critical need for global teamwork in battling pollution and climate change, especially concerning our oceans. This message was shared by Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Nasser Al-Hein, during a key dialogue at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Ambassador Al-Hein made it clear that the GCC views oceans as essential to our planet’s health. They provide food and livelihoods for millions. He stated that everyone deserves to live in a clean and healthy environment, which supports other essential rights like food security, health, and sustainable development.
To protect marine life, the GCC is taking action. They are implementing policies to reduce marine pollution, encouraging sustainable fishing, and launching initiatives to preserve biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. Their focus includes endorsing the blue economy, which emphasizes economic growth while protecting ocean health.
The Gulf states are also active in global efforts to safeguard marine environments. Through the Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME), they support measures aimed at cutting down marine pollution. They are engaged in initiatives that foster ocean governance and cross-border partnerships to tackle environmental challenges.
Recent data suggests that marine pollution remains a pressing issue. According to the United Nations, about 80% of marine pollution comes from land-based sources. These statistics underline the urgency of the GCC’s efforts and the importance of international collaboration to protect our oceans.
As we move forward, protecting ocean health is not just an environmental issue; it also impacts food security and public health. More action is needed to ensure that future generations inherit healthy oceans. The GCC’s commitment to this cause stands as a hopeful sign in the fight against environmental degradation.
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Source linkThe Peninsula, Qatar
