A principled approach for BBNJ: An idea whose time has come

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AbstractHealthy ecosystems and the services they provide depend on biodiversity. Considering the catastrophic impact the collapse of ecosystem services would have, particularly on the most vulnerable, there can be no doubt that the loss of biodiversity undermines the full enjoyment of human rights. Because the maintenance of healthy biodiversity and ecosystems is the priority of a regime that provides for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, such a regime supports the full enjoyment of human rights. The ocean provides key ecosystem services upon which humanity depends. As such, the transformation of ocean governance in a way that promotes the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity is necessary to ensure the full realization of human rights. This article assesses the role that principles and/or approaches could play in achieving such a transition to sustainable ocean governance within the context of the new international legally binding instrument for biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction currently being deliberated by the international community, with specific reference to the application of precaution and the ecosystem approach.