공해 및 심해저 등「국가관할권 이원지역의 생물다양성의 보전 및 지속가능한 이용을 위한 협정」과 ABS의 이행에 관한 소고

The final adoption of the BBNJ agreement marks a significant turning point in the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. This agreement clearly defines access and benefit sharing (ABS) for marine biological resources in high seas and deep-sea areas, the establishment of marine protected areas, the obligation to conduct environmental impact assessments, the transfer of marine science and technology, and the necessity for international cooperation, thus providing a strong framework for the protection and sustainable use of the marine ecosystem. It reflects the international community's will to balance the utilization and protection of marine biological resources, especially offering significant opportunities for technology transfer and capacity building for developing countries. The implementation of the agreement is expected to have a considerable impact on the marine bioindustry. In particular, the limitations on access to marine biological resources and the requirements for benefit sharing present new regulations and opportunities for the commercial use of these resources. This could stimulate a global competition for the rights to marine biological resources, posing new challenges and opportunities for countries like ours that aim to develop their marine bioindustry. For our country, the BBNJ agreement necessitates a strategic response for the sustainable utilization of marine biological resources and international cooperation. The already initiated Marine Life Resource Material Utilization Base Construction R&D project, which aims to explore marine genetic resources, enhance information, and support commercialization research, could contribute to achieving the goals of the agreement. Furthermore, the transfer of marine science and technology and international cooperation should be strengthened to enhance partnerships with developing countries and actively participate in the global effort for the sustainable use of marine biological resources. In conclusion, the BBNJ agreement has established a new international framework for the sustainable development of the marine bioindustry. Consequently, our country must seek strategic responses to maintain the competitiveness of the marine bioindustry by enhancing international cooperation for the protection and sustainable use of marine biological resources through the implementation of the agreement.