United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf
The United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) is a body established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Its primary role is to review and assess submissions made by coastal states regarding the outer limits of their continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles. This process helps to clarify maritime boundaries and ensure that states can exercise their rights over seabed resources.
The CLCS consists of experts in various fields, including geology, hydrography, and geophysics. By providing recommendations, the commission aids countries in establishing their continental shelf limits, which is crucial for resource management and environmental protection in ocean areas.