EDF Strengthens Role in Ocean-Climate Governance with New Consultative Status at the IMO’s London Convention and Protocol

Environmental Defense Fund was granted full observer status at the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter (London Convention and Protocol), a pioneering global agreement to protect the marine environment from the harmful effects of pollution. The Convention is organized under the International Maritime Organization. This recognition places EDF among a select group of environmental non-governmental organizations allowed to contribute their expertise to this United Nations specialized agency. With its newly granted consultative status, EDF will join and offer science-based input on discussions to help member states at the London Convention and Protocol accelerate decisive action on ocean protection. EDF has also been a consultative member of the IMO since 2022 on matters related to addressing greenhouse gas emissions from ships.  

“Climate change is an existential threat to the health of the ocean and billions of people who rely on it. But the ocean is also a source of powerful climate solutions. The London Convention and Protocol is developing regulations to govern one potential set of solutions, known as marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR). It is urgent that governments develop rules that enable researchers to determine whether marine CDR methods can be effective, safe, and feasible before decisions about their deployment are made.” 

• John Mimikakis, Vice President, Fisheries & Oceans Program at Environmental Defense Fund 

“The ocean plays an important role in climate stabilization, and there is a growing need for research into whether mCDR can be a safe, effective and scalable approach to combating climate change. Governance of this research to address key questions is necessary, and EDF looks forward to offering science-based guidance to the London Convention and Protocol for these discussions.” 

•  Kristin Kleisner, Associate Vice President, Ocean Science, EDF 
   

  EDF works to improve lives by harnessing the full potential of a thriving ocean. Together with partners, we put solutions in the hands of coastal communities to improve fisheries management and build local resilience so that they are better prepared to face the growing impacts of climate change. Our work also includes evaluating potential strategies to reduce marine pollution, supporting sustainable ocean use and management, and guiding the responsible assessment and governance of emerging mCDR methods. EDF brings expert scientific knowledge to the IMO and serves as a trusted partner and advisor to Member States and stakeholders across the sector. EDF has also been a consultative member of the IMO on tackling greenhouse gas emissions from ships, where we work to ensure that global transport is a thriving part of sustainable development and the global economy and can deliver the goods people need to thrive without compromising clean air or climate stability.