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Collaboration key to nurturing the resilience of the oceans we share

GEF/UNDP/PEMSEA ATSEA-2

By IW:LEARN

June 7^th, 2023

In the spirit of World Ocean Day 2023 on 8 June, we should take a moment to consider the work that needs to be done. From marine pollution and climate change to unsustainable practices and declining populations of endangered species, the challenges we face are immense.

In the Arafura and Timor Seas (ATS) region, which encompasses Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Timor Leste, these countries are working together to protect and preserve this vital oceanic expanse for future generations.

Green sea turtle in Papua New Guinea waters. Photo: Randy Harwood for ATSEA Program.

Marine pollution knows no borders. Plastic debris and oil spills impact the entire ATS region and therefore requires a transboundary response. To effectively tackle these challenges, collaborative efforts between multiple stakeholders and governmental bodies are urgently needed.

By fostering partnerships and cooperation between Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Timo Leste, we can establish a united front against marine pollution, setting an example for global ocean conservation.

In the ATS region, a major culprit of marine plastic pollution is abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gear (ALDFG). This issue requires immeiate and concerted efforts to prevent and reduce the damage at the source.

Implementing effective waste management systems and raising awareness about the issue of ALDFG and proper waste disposal are key steps toward reducing and diverting plastic pollution. Establishing a value-generating circular economy for maritime industries and fisheries activities should be the ultimate long-term goal.

Women fishers in Kolepom Island, South Papua, Indonesia, an ATSEA Program site, showcasing their expertise in repairing fishing nets. Women play a vital role in local fishing industry especially in ensuring sustainable livelihoods.

Another critical aspect of transboundary cooperation in the ATS region is oil spill prevention and response. Enhanced regional coordination, implementation of best practices and raising awareness about oil spill risk assessment, preparedness and response are integral to reducing the ecosystem impacts of such incidents. Collaboration among nations in the region will improve our ability to prevent and respond effectively to oil spills, thereby minimizing their impact on marine life and coastal communities.

Excerpt from The Jakarta Post Opinion / Academia article written by Handoko Adi Susanto, ATSEA-2 Regional Project Manager. Read the full post.

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About the ATSEA-2 Project

ATSEA-2 is the second phase of the Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action (ATSEA) program; a regional partnership involving the governments of Indonesia, Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea, with the support of the Australian Government. Its objective is to collectively manage high marine and fisheries resources in the Arafura and Timor Seas (ATS) region. Since its inception in 2019, the program has been working to promote sustainable development in the ATS region and improve the quality of life of its inhabitants through a combination of restoration, conservation and sustainable management of marine-coastal ecosystems.

The ATSEA-2 Project is committed to safeguarding the livelihoods and prosperity of coastal people in the ATS region, particularly in transboundary areas, through the implementation of sustainable integrated concepts. ATSEA-2 is a Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded program, managed and executed under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA) Resource Facility (PRF) is an implementing partner.

For more information on the ATSEA-2 Project, please contact the Regional Project Manager, Handoko Adi Susanto (hasusanto@pemsea.org), visit the project page on iwlearn.net or the project website.