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Marine Life & Conservation

Ban Ki-moon urges United Nations Member States to recommit to “Constitution for the Oceans”

Published

11 years ago

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Marking the upcoming 20th anniversary of the entry into force of the landmark treaty that has become known as the “Constitution for the Oceans”, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today encouraged Member States to recommit to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) at what he considers a crucial moment for climate change.

“People everywhere continue to look to the oceans for food security and as a source of jobs, prosperity and well-being,” Ban said in his remarks to the meeting of State parties to the UNCLOS, which runs through Friday at the Headquarters in New York.

“Oceans and seas can play a critical role in the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and in the post-2015 development agenda,” he continued, referencing the anti-poverty targets whose approaching 2015 deadline has led to discussions on a new set of sustainable development goals.

Among its provisions, UNCLOS established that the seabed and the ocean floor beyond the limits of national jurisdiction are the “common heritage of mankind” whose use and protection are the right and responsibility of all.

The Convention, which came into force on 16 November 1994, governs all aspects of ocean space – including the delimitation of maritime boundaries, exploitation of living and non-living resources, protection and preservation of the marine environment, marine scientific research and the settlement of relevant international disputes.

It has contributed to setting up the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, the International Seabed Authority and the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.

The maritime accord also provides the basis for the equitable utilization, protection and preservation or resources in the oceans and seas.

The livelihoods of 12 per cent of the world’s population depend on the fishing sector. On average, 17 per cent of global animal protein intake comes from fisheries and aquaculture, and demand for fish protein is expected to double in the next 20 years, the UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) has reported, yet some 28 per cent of global stocks are already overfished.

“We must address the many pressures facing the oceans as a result of overfishing, acidification, land-based activities and, above all, climate change,” he said, echoing his message for World Oceans Day, which this year underscored the power of collaboration to keep oceans and seas clean and healthy.

Ban will host a summit in September to further highlight the importance of climate change and sustainable development, and general momentum towards a universal UN-backed treaty on climate change by 2015 which would enter into force by 2020.

Ahead of this summit, and in line with the UN General Assembly’s declaration of 2014 as the International Year of Small Island Developing States, the Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States will be held in early September in Apia, Samoa, to focus on partnerships for sustainable development those nations.

 

Source: www.islandsbusiness.com

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Marine Life & Conservation

Raising Awareness for Scuttle the Cuttle – A Global First in Tackling Microplastic Pollution

Published

5 days ago

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May 19, 2025

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Addressing the global crisis of ocean plastic pollution, a new innovation is turning the tide—by placing real-world environmental action in the hands of children. Scuttle the Cuttle, a microplastic-collecting tool designed specifically for young users, has been launched as a practical and inspiring way to involve families in beach cleanups.

Crafted entirely from recycled ocean plastic, Scuttle is a cuttlefish-shaped combination of bucket and sieve. Its engaging design, sustainability credentials, and focus on education make it more than just a toy—it’s a tool for change.

scuttle the cuttle

Designed for Impact

Scuttle’s core purpose is to help remove microplastics—plastic particles smaller than 5mm—from beaches. With a mesh size of 2.8mm, Scuttle can collect small plastic fragments and nurdles before they degrade further. This addresses a critical but often overlooked part of the plastic pollution problem.

Built for Young Eco-Heroes

Scuttle is ergonomically designed for both children and adults. Lightweight, durable, and easy to carry, it allows even the youngest users to contribute meaningfully to beach cleanups. Its approachable design turns environmental action into a fun and empowering activity for children and families.

Circular by Design

From production to end-of-life, Scuttle reflects a strong commitment to the circular economy. Made from 100% recycled ocean plastic and fully recyclable, it is manufactured with long-term use in mind. The product not only removes waste from the environment but also repurposes existing waste in its construction, reducing environmental impact across its lifecycle.

Community and Collaboration

In addition to its environmental function, Scuttle is part of a broader movement to build awareness and encourage local partnerships. It supports responsible sourcing, local collaborations, and community-driven conservation efforts.

Scuttle is now available for purchase and is positioned as the first product of its kind focused specifically on the collection of microplastics through kid-friendly, hands-on cleanup.

For more information about Scuttle the Cuttle, visit odysseyinnovation.com/pages/scuttle.

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Marine Life & Conservation

I.CARE, SSI Blue Oceans, and Mares Team Up to Remove Over 36,000 Pounds of Debris from the Florida Keys

Published

1 week ago

on

May 17, 2025

By

The 3rd Annual I.CARE Trash Derby has come to a successful close, delivering a powerful message of community-driven conservation. In partnership with SSI Blue Oceans, Mares, and several other industry leaders, I.CARE once again led an inspiring grassroots effort to restore and protect the marine environment of the Florida Keys.

This year’s Trash Derby broke records, drawing support from more than 900 participants—including divers, boaters, and conservation advocates—who collectively removed an impressive 36,459 pounds of marine debris. Over a two-day period, teams worked on land, along shorelines, and at reef sites both above and below the water, making a meaningful contribution to the region’s ecological health.

“I am so proud of everyone involved in last week’s I.CARE Trash Derby,” said Mike Goldberg, Co-Founder of I.CARE. “This level of success comes from the passion and hard work of hundreds of people who care about our oceans, reefs, and local communities. I’m filled with gratitude.”

Recognizing Top Contributors: From Trash to Triumph

The event featured competition across three categories—Land & Shore, Private Boat, and Dive Operator—awarding teams based on the amount of debris collected per person. Additional special recognitions included the most monofilament retrieved and the most unusual item found. Congratulations to the standout teams of 2025:

Land & Shore Division:

  • Tired of Tires – 1,128.75 lbs/person

  • DerSno – 930.7 lbs/person

  • KnotaYacht – 124.2 lbs/person

Private Boat Division:

  • Triple Crown – 1,076.83 lbs/person

  • Fisherman & the Mermaid – 735.95 lbs/person

  • Dumpster Diving Divas – 572.875 lbs/person

Dive Operator Division:

  • Quiescence Diving – 430.6 lbs/person (average)

  • Key Dives – 141.3 lbs/person (average)

  • Captain’s Corner – 83.2 lbs/person (average)

Special Awards:

  • Most Monofilament Collected: Conch Republic Divers (26.8 lbs)

  • Most Unique Item Found: Bilge Buddies

Celebrating Conservation with Community and Education

The weekend concluded with the Trash Derby Festival at Founders Park in Islamorada. Attendees enjoyed live music, food, and sustainability-focused vendors, all centered around marine conservation. The festival also provided opportunities to connect with environmental organizations and celebrate the participants’ achievements.

“The energy and dedication from everyone involved was incredible,” said Rachael Steidley, SSI’s North America Marketing Manager. “This event goes beyond collecting trash—it’s about building a movement and inspiring conservation on a global scale.”

Looking Ahead to 2026: Raising the Bar

Plans are already underway for the 4th Annual I.CARE Trash Derby, with organizers calling on dive pros, boaters, and ocean advocates to help set an even bigger record next year.

To get involved or learn more about how you or your dive shop can participate in 2026, visit www.icaretrashderby.com or contact I.CARE at info@icareaboutcoral.org.

Let’s keep making waves for the planet—one pound at a time.

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