URGING THE STATE TO ADOPT THE AGREEMENT UNDER THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION ON THE LAW OF THE SEA ON THE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF MARINE BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY OF AREAS BEYOND NATIONAL JURISDICTION AND SUPPORT LEGISLATIVE, ADMINISTRATIVE, AND POLICY MEASURES TO IMPLEMENT THE AGREEMENT AT THE STATE AND COUNTY LEVELS.

SCR 157 is a non-binding resolution urging Hawaii to adopt the United Nations BBNJ Agreement, which focuses on protecting marine biodiversity in international ocean areas. It directs state and county governments to support legislative, administrative, and policy measures for implementing the agreement’s provisions. Key elements include promoting fair sharing of marine genetic resources, establishing marine protected areas, conducting environmental assessments, and addressing ocean threats like pollution and climate impacts. The resolution does not create new laws but encourages Hawaii to align its policies with this international framework.