[full_width_section][one_fifth][/one_fifth][three_fifth]
YOUR PARTICIPATION MEANS THE WORLD
For thousands of years, the Arctic ice has naturally protected our planet from the heat of the sun. But now the ice is melting at an alarming rate, putting the Arctic Ocean – and us all – under threat. Declare MAPS: the Marine Arctic Peace Sanctuary today so this vulnerable ecosystem can regenerate and protect our world.[/three_fifth][one_fifth_last][space size=”1″][/one_fifth_last][/full_width_section]
[full_width_section][one_half][/one_half][one_half_last]
WHY
The Arctic Ocean plays a pivotal role in regulating global temperatures on land and at sea. With the loss of ice, weather patterns are increasingly chaotic, affecting global food supply, clean drinking water, and the safety of our homes, while causing even more melting and contributing to sea-level rise.
The strength of the Arctic ice, and the health of our oceans, are critical to the survival of humanity and the biodiversity on the planet. Protecting the Arctic Ocean is a matter of survival for all living things.
[/one_half_last][/full_width_section][full_width_section][one_half]
[/one_half][one_half_last]
WHAT
MAPS:
- Protects the fragile Arctic ecosystem by giving the area a chance to regenerate
- Shelters our oceans and ocean life, which absorb a quarter of the world’s carbon and are essential for the future of humanity
- Safeguards the polar ice cap, which keeps our planet cool through the albedo effect
- Declares our global commitment to sustainable energies and our cessation of the use of fossil fuels by saying “no” to offshore Arctic oil and gas
- Unites world leaders in agreement to no longer put short-term gain ahead of long-term consequence
[/one_half_last][/full_width_section][full_width_section][one_half][/one_half][one_half_last]
HOW
THE MAPS TREATY
Right now, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) gives coastal countries the freedom to exploit natural resources within their exclusive economic zones. But what happens in the Arctic Ocean affects all life on the planet. The international community must protect the Arctic Ocean, not allow its exploitation.
Ratified by the United Nations with the signatures of 99 countries, The Marine Arctic Peace Sanctuary Treaty designates the entire Arctic Ocean and seabed north of the Arctic Circle as an international marine protected area. While permitting scientific research and encouraging working relationships with specialized UN agencies, it prohibits all harmful activities including oil and gas exploitation, commercial fishing and shipping, seismic testing and military exercises.
[/one_half_last][/full_width_section]
[space size=”100″]