Decisions 15.69 to 15.71 - Marine Wildlife Watching

Aquatic Species Conservation Issues

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Decision directed to: Parties

Parties are encouraged to disseminate the Guidelines on Recreational In-water Interactions with Marine Wildlife to relevant organizations and operators in their countries, and to utilize them in national planning.

Decision directed to: Scientific Council

The Scientific Council is requested to, subject to availability of resources: a) develop a report to assess the long-term effects and biological significance of disturbances from boat-based and in-water interactions for all CMS-listed marine species, and make recommendations to Parties; b) recommend in which areas activities should be strictly limited to boat-based activities from an increased distance for particularly vulnerable populations, and make recommendations to Parties; c) investigate the desirability of developing guidance regarding the use of unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles, and other relevant technologies used around marine wildlife during recreational activities.

Decision directed to: Secretariat

The Secretariat is requested, subject to the availability of resources, to support the Scientific Council in implementing Decision 15.70.