Policies and Regulations of the United Nations Regarding Ocean Fertilization

The United Nations General Assembly has encouraged the global community to support further study and to enhance understanding of ocean fertilization. Four UN entities have major interests in this topic: the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the London Convention and Protocol (LC/LP) and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Together, they cover the spectrum of marine science, marine conservation and pollution regulatory agencies.

In response to concerns that large-scale ocean fertilization might be attempted before its consequences are fully understood, the UN has urged governments to ensure that ocean fertilization initiatives take place with adequate scientific basis on which to justify such activities, including an assessment of associated risks. The UN has also advocated for a global, transparent and effective control and regulatory mechanism to be put in place for these initiatives, with the exception of small-scale scientific research studies within coastal waters.

Oceaneos conducts research, develops technology and executes micronutrient replenishment projects in specific low-nutrient areas of the ocean. The company’s work is only conducted in compliance with UN regulations and in collaboration with governments and universities, with the goal of increasing collapsing fish stock and other ocean life.