The protection of marine biodiversity in international law: the search for a framework for the harmonization of disparate regulations
2019
Abstract
The oceans alone represent more than 90% of the biosphere; life abounds in innumerable forms interacting with each other. This diversity, essential for the integrity of marine ecosystems, is threatened by the irresponsible behavior of man, leading to pollution of the marine environment, destruction of habitats and overexploitation of living marine resources.
In view of the discrepancy between the natural characteristics of the oceans (in particular the relative homogeneity of the marine environment) and their legal status provided for in the Convention United Nations on the Law of the Sea, action at the international level is necessary to deal with the dangers to which marine biodiversity is exposed.