Participants shaped a set of ten draft white papers, which identify future priorities for the Ocean Decade to generate knowledge on science-based solutions to biodiversity conservation, climate change, food security, a sustainable ocean economy, pollution, and natural hazards.

Discussions focused on kickstarting the implementation of the new BBNJ treaty, especially by identifying marine protected areas. Many also underscored ocean-climate linkages and highlighted the importance of global cooperation on ocean science.

The United Nations Science-Policy-Business Forum on the Environment (UN-SPBF) convened a day-long Special Session at UNEA-6. Building on recent UN-SPBF regional and thematic processes and outcomes of expert groups, and with a focus on “solution-driven thought-leadership,” the day was organized around moderated, interactive debates and deep-dive segments introducing perspectives and contributions from multiple sectors and stakeholders.

Under the theme “Effective, inclusive and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution,” delegates adopted 15 resolutions, two decisions, and a Ministerial Declaration, covering topics including the highly hazardous pesticides, sustainable lifestyles, sand and dust storms, and environmental recovery in areas affected by armed conflict.