Preparing profiles of marine biodiversity

Description

Preparing profiles of marine biodiversity involves systematically collecting, analyzing, and documenting data on marine species, habitats, and ecosystems. This strategy enables the identification of biodiversity hotspots, assessment of threats, and monitoring of changes over time. By providing comprehensive, accessible information, it supports informed decision-making for conservation, resource management, and policy development, directly addressing issues such as habitat loss, overexploitation, and inadequate protection of marine environments.

Implementation

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.

Agenda 21 recommends completing or updating marine biodiversity, marine living resource and critical habitat profiles of exclusive economic zones and other areas under national jurisdiction, taking account of changes in the environment brought about by natural causes and human activity.