The ocean, covering more than 70 percent of the Earth's surface, plays a crucial role in regulating the planet's climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining human livelihoods. In recognition of the ocean’s critical importance, Target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework calls for the protection of at least 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. This target, often referred to as the “30x30” goal, aims to establish a global network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) that are ecologically representative, effectively managed, and equitably governed. Protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030 is not just an ambitious goal—it is a necessity to ensure the long-term health and resilience of marine ecosystems.
In this webinar, we will explore the successes and challenges of establishing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and marine Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs). Marine conservation experts will discuss the latest strategies and emerging policies that are driving progress toward Target 3, including highlighting case studies of MPAs and OECMs that have effectively preserved marine biodiversity. Participants will gain insights into the practical steps needed to expand marine protected areas and OECMs, ensuring that the ocean’s vast and diverse ecosystems are preserved for future generations.
Vital Sites Webinar Series
As the world prepares for the upcoming World Conservation Congress (WCC) in Abu Dhabi in October 2025, the IUCN and IUCN WCPA are committed to providing technical guidance and support to advance ambitious global biodiversity conservation efforts. In the immediate term, our focus is on the upcoming CBD COP16 in Cali, Colombia from October 21st to November 1st, 2024. Engaging with these critical milestones, IUCN Protected and Conserved Areas (PCA) Team and IUCN WCPA are jointly reviving the Vital Sites webinar series, which aims to foster dialogue, share expertise, and catalyse action in advance of some of the most important global gatherings of the conservation community.
In preparation for CBD COP16, IUCN WCPA and the IUCN PCA Team will host a mini-series of webinars aimed at accelerating progress toward the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework both nationally and internationally. By highlighting topics of strategic importance to CBD parties, these sessions offer a platform for exchanging knowledge, showcasing best practices, and exploring innovative strategies to ensure the successful implementation of protected and conserved areas for biodiversity conservation efforts around the world.