Use of still and video cameras to record deepwater shark and VME indicator catches by scientific observers was held virtually on 31 August 2021, bringing developers and users together to share innovations in using cameras onboard fishing vessels to assist observers in collecting more and better data. The meeting consisted of 8 presentations and over 120 registered participants from around the world.

Far from land, outside national boundaries, marine Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction or common oceans make up 40% of our planet. They hold 95% of our oceans’ water, and host some of the world’s most complex ecosystems. Ecosystems that help control climate, boost food security and help people make a living. Using common oceans resources sustainably and responsibly is challenging, but achievable. With the Global Environmental Fund’s support, FAO’s Common Oceans Programme is working with a wide range of partners to sustainably use and protect these fragile marine ecosystems.

Between 2014-2019, the Program made significant strides in improving tuna fisheries, tackling illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and protecting marine life and vulnerable ecosystems. All of this was more than just a drop in the ocean, but we need to do more to ensure that our Common Oceans are managed sustainably for future generations.

Watch this video to learn more about the connectivity of our ocean, and how it is managed. It was prepared under the Common Oceans ABNJ Deep Sea Project, by implementing partner the UN Environment World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC).

Biodegradable fish aggregating devices (FADs) are made with natural materials that can break down over time and are less harmful to the marine environment. In contrast, traditional FADs are made with man-made materials that, when not retrieved after fishing, persist in and pollute the ocean. The International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) is working with fishers, scientists and industry to find the best non-entangling designs and natural materials for FADs that can biodegrade, with support provided by the Common Oceans ABNJ Tuna Project. This video offers an overview of recent workshops that are part of this ongoing effort