On 21 May 2024 the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea unanimously delivered its landmark Advisory Opinion on climate change, holding that under the United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea, state parties have a stringent obligation to protect and preserve the marine environment from adverse climate change impacts. While the Tribunal addressed specific obligations regarding pollution of the marine environment from various sources, it made no mention of pollution caused by activities in the Area. Nevertheless, as this article demonstrates, the Advisory Opinion findings may substantially contribute—both directly and indirectly—to the legal framework governing the Area, which is currently under development.

About the Speaker:

Ms. Tajra Smajic, PhD Candidate, CUHK LAW.

Register here to attend the seminar on or before 18 November 2025, 12:00noon (Hong Kong Time).