The Marine Biodiversity Conservation Program (BCP) is dedicated to understanding and preserving the rich diversity of marine life and ecosystems in the ROPME Sea Area (RSA). The program aims to protect marine ecosystems and species, promote sustainable practices that ensure the health and resilience of marine environments, and restore critical habitats across the RSA. The Marine Biodiversity Conservation Program is therefore essential for maintaining the ecological health and biological diversity of the region. By focusing on ecosystem and species protection, habitat restoration, sustainable practices, and community engagement, the program seeks to support a sustainable future in which marine life can thrive.

The main priorities of the program

• Biodiversity assessment and monitoring (abundance, distribution, and health).
• Marine Ecosystems Monitoring and Restoration (Mangroves, seagrasses, saltmarshes, and
  coral reefs,..).
• Marine Protected Establishment.
• Sustainable Fisheries Management.

Key Activities

• Biodiversity monitoring: Establishing consistent biodiversity monitoring using eDNA in all RSA areas.
• Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Establishing and managing MPAs to provide safe havens for marine species and ecosystems.
• Coastal and Marine Sensitive Areas: Understanding the functionality, and vulnerability of coastal and marine sensitive areas (coral reefs, mangroves, seagrasses, saltmarshes, and mudflats) by conserving what is left and restoration of damaged ones.
• Sustainable Fisheries Management: Developing and enforcing regulations to prevent overfishing and promote sustainable fishing practices.