Liberia Takes Bold Steps for Ocean Conservation at BBNJ Treaty Meeting

New York, NY – In an impassioned address at the High-Level Segment Meeting on the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia, made a striking case for global marine conservation and the urgent need for collective action.

Addressing a distinguished audience of global delegates and dignitaries, Dr. Yarkpawolo painted a vivid picture of Liberia’s coastal treasures, boasting over 350 miles of Atlantic coastline teeming with essential marine resources. He underscored these resources’ crucial role in sustaining local fisheries, vibrant mangrove forests, and rich marine biodiversity, which are lifelines for countless Liberians. “The ocean is not just a resource; it is our lifeline,” he declared, passionately advocating for its role in food security, economic opportunity, and climate resilience through blue carbon ecosystems.

In a groundbreaking announcement, Dr. Yarkpawolo revealed Liberia’s intention to sign the BBNJ Treaty and ratify the Minamata Convention on Mercury. This bold move aims to bolster efforts to protect marine biodiversity in the high seas while ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks critical for food security. He expressed optimism that the treaty would combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, promote sustainable fisheries, and protect essential marine ecosystems vital for tourism and coastal resilience.

“This signing marks a historic moment for Liberia,” the Executive Director proclaimed. “We are committed to establishing the first generation of fully protected marine protected areas (MPAs) in the high seas to secure our ocean resources for future generations.” This commitment aligns with the treaty’s ambitious goal of designating 30% of the high seas as MPAs, safeguarding vital ocean areas that transcend national borders yet have a profound impact on coastal communities.

Dr. Yarkpawolo called for a united global approach to achieving the treaty’s objectives, emphasizing ongoing initiatives in the ECOWAS region. Liberia is collaborating with organizations like Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to leverage expertise from think tanks, universities, and technical experts. “Protecting 30% of the high seas is not just necessary—it is urgent,” he stressed, rallying for immediate action for the sake of future generations and the planet.

In a stirring conclusion, Dr. Yarkpawolo issued a rallying cry for global unity and determination: “Let us rise to the challenge for the future of our countries, our regions, and our planet.” His powerful remarks serve as a clarion call for world leaders to adopt ambitious environmental protection measures, firmly positioning Liberia as a pivotal advocate for sustainable ocean stewardship internationally.