Recognizing World Oceans Day and the need to protect, conserve, maintain, and rebuild the ocean and its resources.
Impact
This resolution impacts state laws by reaffirming the importance of preserving marine environments and recognizing the challenges posed by climate change and pollution. By encouraging collaborative federal actions and scientific research into the health of the ocean, HR482 supports initiatives that can lead to updated regulations and enhanced protections for coastal communities. The language and commitments made in the resolution could pave the way for future legislation focused on sustainability and marine resource management, aligning state policies with federal goals.
Summary
HR482 is a resolution that recognizes World Oceans Day and emphasizes the urgent need to protect, conserve, maintain, and rebuild the ocean and its resources. The resolution highlights the ocean's pivotal role in generating oxygen, regulating climate, and providing food and economic opportunities. Moreover, it underscores the interconnection between the health of the ocean and the planet’s overall health, advocating for a national strategy on ocean mapping and exploration. The bill aims to foster increased awareness and action concerning environmental stressors affecting marine ecosystems.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the federal commitment to invest in scientific research versus the perceived need for immediate protective measures at local levels. There may be debates on the balance between economic interests, such as fishing and tourism, and environmental protections. Stakeholders from various sectors, including indigenous communities and conservation organizations, might express differing views on the methods and priorities for ocean stewardship as outlined in HR482. The resolution calls for a unified approach but could face scrutiny on specific implementations that could impact local governance and resource access.
Expressing the need for protecting and conserving at least 50 percent of the land, freshwater, and ocean ecosystems in the United States and encouraging diplomatic community efforts to achieve this goal worldwide.
Expressing the need for the Federal Government to establish a national biodiversity strategy for protecting biodiversity for current and future generations.
To require the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to establish a Blue Carbon Program to conserve and restore blue carbon ecosystems, and for other purposes.