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UNFCCC Ocean-Climate Action at COP 27

Published on:
  • Climate mitigation and adaptation
  • Vibrant Coasts and Deltas

The ocean plays a critical role in the global carbon cycle, and healthy ocean ecosystems, including mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes, are vital for climate adaptation and mitigation. At COP 27, Parties can continue to strengthen and advance ocean-climate action under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). In preparation, partners including Wetlands International have prepared an options paper that details specific steps and recommendations for Parties to do so.

This ‘Options paper for strengthening action on the ocean and coasts under the UNFCCC’ identifies the numerous areas within UNFCCC processes, bodies, and ongoing negotiations where countries may advance efforts to address ocean-climate challenges and strengthen recognition of the role of coastal and marine ecosystems in climate action. This resource is prepared in response to the invitation for “relevant work programs and constituted bodies under the UNFCCC to consider how to integrate and strengthen ocean-based action in their existing mandates and work plans and to report on these activities within the existing reporting processes, as appropriate” (1/CP.26).

Earlier versions of this options paper have been published prior to SB 56 and COP 26. This updated version reflects the latest developments and opportunities under ongoing UNFCCC processes.

Options for strengthening action on the ocean and coasts under the UNFCCC