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OBIS at the third United Nations Ocean Conference

4 June 2025

United Nations Ocean Conference UNOC3 eDNA Expeditions

United Nations Ocean Conference 2025 Photo: Ron Watkins / The Ocean Image Bank


Join OBIS and the global Ocean community at the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), held in Nice from 9–13 June 2025. We are proud to contribute to highlighting the essential role of open, interoperable marine biodiversity data in global ocean governance!

The importance of a well-working Clearing House Mechanism for BBNJ
Wed, 11 June, 10:30-11:45 (CEST) | Room 2
This side event will provide a platform for states and stakeholders to exchange views on the needs and priorities for the Clearing-House Mechanism under the BBNJ Agreement. The discussion will explore its structure, functions, and key role in facilitating access to information, capacity-building, technology transfer, and financial resources. Key themes will include governance, transparency and confidentiality, and the mechanisms necessary to ensure an effective and inclusive Clearing-House Mechanism.



eDNA Expeditions Phase II Photo: Justin Gilligan / UNESCO

Launch of eDNA Expeditions II: Advancing Towards Operational Sampling and an eDNA sampling demonstration
Thu, 12 June, | Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Quai Riboty, Port de Nice)
This event will feature the official launch of eDNA Expeditions Phase 2, a global UNESCO-led initiative powered by OBIS using environmental DNA to advance marine biodiversity monitoring. Hosted aboard the Statsraad Lehmkuhl, it includes a project signing, a live sampling demonstration, and a call for international collaboration to support ocean conservation efforts.