November 19, 2014 — The once in a decade World Parks Congress has wrapped up in Sydney with some ambitious targets, including an aim to give new protection to a third of the world's oceans by 2030.
There's also been criticism of the host nation from at least one visiting minister for not moving further on climate change.
The Minister for Forestry and Fisheries from Belize called on Australia to step up on its commitment to negotiations.
Liv Casben compiled this report.
BABA BRINKMAN: We're here to invigorate, to progress instead of regress and never let an area that’s protected settle for less.
LIV CASBEN: Wrapping up the World Parks Congress with a rapper.
BABA BRINKMAN: Let us never forget 71 per cent of the planet is ocean and marine life is suffering the most massive erosion.
LIV CASBEN: The Canadian artist Baba Brinkman live streamed his message to the world.
Over the past week, 6,000 delegates gathered in Sydney – among them some of the world's top environmental scientists, as well as 30 environment ministers.
The aim of the congress has been to consider how to safeguard the planet's natural assets.
The result has been 'the promise of Sydney.' Almost 100 commitments from governments and non-government organisations.
Read the full story and listen to the audio at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation