About this Event
The High Seas in a Changing Climate: Pathways for Coherent Implementation Strategic Workshop during New York Climate Week
25 September 2026 I 12.30pm - 6.30pm
777 United Nations Plaza, New York
11th Floor Conference Room
The Ocean & Climate Platform, alongside Blue Marine Foundation, the High Seas Alliance, Oceano Azul Foundation and Peace Boat US, are delighted to invite you to the strategic workshop “The High Seas in a Changing Climate: Pathways for Coherent Implementation” held during New York Climate Week. It will take place on Friday 25 September 2026, between 12.30 pm - 6.30 pm, at 777 UN Plaza, New York.
The workshop will bring together scientists and policy experts to explore how climate considerations can be meaningfully integrated into the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement. Discussions will focus on area-based management tools, environmental impact assessments, and cooperation with international frameworks and bodies, particularly the UNFCCC and the CBD. Please find attached the concept note for your information. A detailed agenda will follow shortly.
* A light lunch will be provided.
Additional information:
The entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement marks a historic step for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. While climate considerations are already reflected in the Agreement, their practical implications remain unclear as the Treaty moves from negotiation to implementation. So far, climate has remained largely absent from discussions on BBNJ implementation. Addressing this gap will be essential to ensure that the Agreement is operationalised in a way that reflects the realities of a changing ocean and strengthens its long-term effectiveness.
Objectives of the Workshop during Climate Week NYC
1. Advance a shared understanding of high seas x climate interactions and strengthen the rationale for climate-informed implementation of the BBNJ Agreement.
2. Identify and prioritise entry points for integrating climate considerations into the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement, including through area-based management tools, environmental impact assessments, scientific and technical processes, and cooperation with other relevant international frameworks and bodies.
3. Elevate climate considerations within the BBNJ policy space and build momentum for their integration into the Agreement’s implementation in the lead-up to BBNJ COP1, while promoting synergies across global frameworks within the UNFCCC, CBD and BBNJ.
Event venue
777 United Nations Plaza, 777 United Nations Plaza, New York, United States
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