Promoting effective measures for the prevention and control of marine pollution

XXIV. RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED ON THE REPORTS OF THE SECOND COMMITTEE
2566. Promoting effective measures for the prevention and control of marine pollution

The General Assembly, Recalling its resolution 2414 (XXIII) of 17 December 1968, in which it requested the Secretary-General to report to the General Assembly at its twenty-fifth session, inter alia, on the progress achieved by Member States and organizations concerned in promoting the adoption of effective international agreements on the prevention and control of marine pollution as might be necessary, Recalling also its resolution 2467 B (XXIII)of 21 December 1968 on the prevention of marine pollution which might result from exploration and exploitation of the resources of the sea-bed and ocean floor, Noting that a joint group of experts on the scientific aspects of marine pollution has been established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the World Meteorological Organization and the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization to give advice to those agencies on that subject, Taking into account the "Comprehensive outline of the scope of the long-term and expanded programme of oceanic exploration and research",[1] providing for a series of scientific studies which would review the state of the ocean and its resources as regards pollution and forecast long-term trends to assist Governments individually and collectively to take the steps required to counteract its effects, Bearing in mind arrangements made by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for a technical conference on marine pollution and its effects on living resources and fishing, to be held in Rome in December 1970, Recalling its resolution 2398 (XXIII) of 3 December 1968 on the convening in 1972 of a United Nations Conference on the Human Environment and the report of the Secretary-General on problems of the human environment[2] which, inter alia, stresses the problems relating to marine pollution, Noting resolution A.176(VI) on marine pollution, adopted by the Assembly of the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization on 21 October 1969, calling for an international conference in 1973 for the purpose of preparing a suitable international agreement for placing restraints on the contamination of the sea, land and air by ships and other vessels or equipment operating in the marine environment, Considering that, in spite of the sustained efforts being made at present, many aspects of marine pollution have not yet been dealt with or are not being fully covered, and that additional agreements on subject may be required,

1. Requests the Secretary-General, in co-operation with the specialized agencies and intergovernmental organizations concerned, to complement reports a studies under preparation, with special reference the forthcoming United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, by:

(a) A review of harmful chemical substances, radio active materials and other noxious agents and was: which may dangerously affect man's health and economic and cultural activities in the marine environment and coastal areas;

(b) A review of national activities and activities specialized agencies and intergovernmental organizations dealing with prevention and control of marine pollution, including suggestions for more comprehensive action and improved co-ordination in this field;

(c) Seeking the views of Member States on the desirability and feasibility of an international treaty or treaties on the subject;

2. Requests the Secretary-General to report to Economic and Social Council and to the Preparatory Committee for the United Nations Conference on Human Environment, as appropriate in the framework of the preparations for the Conference.

1832nd plenary meeting,
13 December 1969.

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[1] 27 A/7750, annex. [2] E/4667.