Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
The scientific and technology frontier, because of the unique nature of these extreme envir-
onments, represents a considerable challenge to the operationalization of monitoring sys-
tems as well as to comprehensive research activities related to marine genetic resources.
There is therefore a critical need to step up capacity-building efforts and international col-
laborative programmes and activities in marine scientific research, including the transfer of
marine technology.
The assessment of past and current practices in research activities and applications
shows that we have disposed of a number of pragmatic tools to resolve some of the chal-
lenges related to marine genetic resources of areas beyond national jurisdiction. While the
policy discussions continue in the context of the General Assembly, including its Ad Hoc
Open-ended Informal Working Group, to identify suitable benefit-sharing options, the con-
servation and sustainable use of marine genetic resources can benefit, as of now, from the
application of a number of tools, including those related to international cooperation in
marine scientific research, sustainable planning, and the implementation of an ecosystem
