Treaties and Conventions

The Convention on Biological Diversity represents a dramatic step forward in the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources.

CITES serves to protect more than 30,000 species of animals and plants through management of International Trade of protected species

The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals aims to conserve terrestrial, aquatic and avian migratory species throughout their range.

The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, called the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.

The Convention for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment of the Wider Caribbean Region (the Cartagena Convention) constitutes a legal commitment by the participating governments to protect, develop and manage their common waters individually or jointly.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships.