MY OCEAN CHARTER

I A gree:

T he oceans and the creatures therein are a necessary part of life on this planet.

M aintaining the health of the oceans and the abundance of its fisheries, together with the wise and safe use of all its resources, must be accepted and honoured by governments so that future generations can enjoy the continuing benefit for all peoples.

U nderstanding the marine environment and its living community is necessary for the stewardship of the oceans and the seas and for the making of decisions to protect and husband its resources.

W e must work together to succeed - within countries people can influence ocean policies if they act together - internationally, countries should help their neighbours and accept regional policies and actions - countries having the knowledge and resources should assist less fortunate nations - data and information on the oceans should be readily exchanged - international and intergovernmental organizations should be used to generate global programmes and agreements.

I promise to remember my oceans charter, in my treatment of the oceans and the waters that flow into the ocean, in my work and in my play and in the decisions that I make.

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The International Year of the Ocean, 1998