SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action (SAMOA) Pathway A/RES/69/15 Oceans and seas 53. We acknowledge that oceans and seas, along with coastal areas, form an essential component of the Earth’s ecosystem and are intrinsically linked to sustainable development, including that of small island developing States. Healthy, productive and resilient oceans and coasts are critical for, inter alia, poverty eradication, access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food, livelihoods, economic development and essential ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, and represent an important element of identity and culture for the people of small island developing States. Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, coastal tourism, the possible use of seabed resources and potential sources of renewable energy are among the main building blocks of a sustainable ocean-based economy in small island developing States. 54. Recognizing that small island developing States have large maritime areas and have shown notable leadership in the conservation and sustainable use of those areas and their resources, we support their efforts to develop and implement strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of those areas and resources. We also support their efforts to conserve their valuable underwater cultural heritage. 55. We reaffirm that international law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 24 provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources. 56. Recognizing the concern that potential oil leaks from sunken State vessels have environmental implications for the marine and coastal ecosystems of small island developing States, and taking into account the sensitivities surrounding vessels that are marine graves, we note that small island developing States and relevant vessel owners should continue to address the issue bilaterally on a case-bycase basis. 57. We recognize that an integrated ecosystem approach to ocean-related activities is needed to optimize opportunities. It should be based on the best available science, give due regard to conservation efforts and precautionary approaches and ensure coherence and balance among the three dimensions of sustainable development. 58. With this in mind, we strongly support action: (a) To promote and support national, subregional and regional efforts to assess, conserve, protect, manage and sustainably use the oceans, seas and their resources by supporting research and the implementation of strategies on coastal zone management and ecosystem-based management, including for fisheries management, and enhancing national legal and institutional frameworks for the exploration and sustainable use of living and non-living resources; (b) To engage in national and regional efforts to sustainably develop the ocean resources of small island developing States and generate increasing returns for their peoples; (c) To implement fully and effectively the regional seas programmes in which small island developing States participate; (d) To address marine pollution by developing effective partnerships, including through the development and implementation of relevant arrangements, _______________ 24 United Nations, Treaty Series, vol. 1833, No. 31363. 13/30