The ABNJ Deep Seas Project ‘Sustainable Fisheries Management and Biodiversity Conservation of Deep-sea Living Marine Resources and Ecosystems in the Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction’ is a five year project designed to enhance sustainability in the use of deep-sea living resources and biodiversity conservation in the ABNJ through the systematic application of an ecosystem approach. The project is led by FAO in partnership with CCAMLR, RFMOs and related organisations and arrangements. The project started in September 2014 and is one of four projects under the Common Oceans Program (www.commonoceans.org).
CCAMLR has been involved in the design and development of the project, and contributes to activities that promote collaboration and sharing of experiences in deep-sea fisheries and associated biodiversity as well as specific activities on capacity building for developing countries. This contribution is coordinated by the CCAMLR Secretariat and included expert contributions from the Chair of the Scientific Committee and the Convener of WG-FSA in 2015. Project achievement to date and upcoming activities of relevance to CCAMLR are highlighted.