The "Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels" is an international treaty and conservation initiative aimed at safeguarding and preserving the populations of albatrosses and petrels, which are vulnerable bird species found mainly in the Southern Ocean and surrounding areas. The agreement was established in 2001 under the auspices of the global environmental treaty known as the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.
This agreement recognizes the urgent need to protect these iconic seabirds, many of which face severe threats such as habitat degradation, bycatch in fisheries, and invasive species predation. The primary objective of this treaty is to reduce the impact of human activities on albatrosses and petrels, particularly those resulting from fishing operations.
To achieve this, the agreement encourages cooperation among its member countries to implement best practices and effective measures for mitigating the impacts on these birds. This may include the development and implementation of conservation and management plans, the promotion of sustainable fishing techniques, the minimizing of bycatch through innovative technologies, and the eradication or control of invasive species on breeding islands.
Furthermore, the agreement fosters the sharing of scientific knowledge and research findings related to albatross and petrel conservation, as well as facilitating international collaboration and capacity building among member states. Additionally, it promotes public awareness and education to increase understanding and support for the protection of these species.
By signing and ratifying this agreement, countries commit to fulfilling their obligations, which may include reporting on conservation measures taken, participating in meetings and conferences, and actively contributing to the implementation of the agreement.
