Marine Plastic Pollution as a Common Concern of Humankind

doi:10.1017/9781108878739.006

3 - Marine Plastic Pollution as a Common Concern of Humankind

from Part II - Case Studies

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 May 2021

Judith Schäli

Edited by

Thomas Cottier

Edited in association with

Zaker Ahmad

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Thomas Cottier: Affiliation:
World Trade Institute
Zaker Ahmad: Affiliation:
World Trade Institute

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Summary

Massive accumulation of marine litter is internationally recognized as one of the most pressing environmental concerns of our time. The chapter shows that there is a process underway towards recognition of marine litter, and marine plastic pollution in particular, as a common concern of humankind. It identifies existing general obligations in the subject area, which largely correlate with the pillars of the doctrine as discussed in this book. The chapter explores the potentials of the doctrine of common concern to further reinforce global efforts to mitigate marine plastic pollution. It argues that the recognition of marine plastic pollution as a common concern of humankind urges states to cooperate more closely and calls for the establishment of a specific legal framework on marine plastics, including from land-based pollution sources. In a legal binding instrument, standards can be set regarding national implementation.

Keywords

Common Concern of Humankind Plastic pollution Marine environment Oceans Waste management UNCLOS Law of the sea Trade and environment Capacity building

Type: Chapter
Information: The Prospects of Common Concern of Humankind in International Law , pp. 153 - 198

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108878739.006 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2021

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