The High Seas Treaty, a major international agreement, aims to protect marine biodiversity in our oceans. This legally binding treaty entered into force on Saturday, after two decades of negotiation. It’s the first of its kind, focusing on areas beyond national waters, which make up about two-thirds of the ocean.
Officially called the “Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction,” the treaty facilitates the creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The global goal is to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030—a target known as “30 by 30.” Currently, just 1% of the high seas is protected, leaving marine life at risk.
Since the treaty opened for signatures in September 2023, 142 countries and the European Union have signed it. However, it needed at least 60 ratifications to take effect, which occurred last September with the support of countries like Sri Lanka and Morocco.
Jennifer Morris, CEO of The Nature Conservancy, emphasized the importance of this moment: “Protecting our planet hinges on binding protections of international waters. Without them, global 30×30 targets slip beyond reach.” Yet, not all are celebrating. Oceana’s Chief Scientist, Katie Matthews, stressed that mere words are not enough. “What matters now is turning words into action,” she said, highlighting the urgency for nations to follow through on their commitments.
Some leaders are optimistic. Julio Cordano from Chile called the treaty a vital victory for both conservation and sustainable development. Leaders from island nations also welcomed it, reflecting a unified global stance against threats to our oceans.
Currently, 80 out of 142 signatories have ratified the treaty. The U.S., while signing, has yet to ratify and recently withdrew from several UN climate organizations, raising concerns about its commitment to ocean preservation.
Beyond just MPAs, the treaty also addresses marine genetic resources and environmental assessments. It sets up frameworks for funding and institutional arrangements, signaling a shared global responsibility for ocean health.
However, criticism persists. Belgium’s bid to host the BBNJ secretariat has raised eyebrows, especially amid its ongoing seabed mining activities. A letter from 44 NGOs, including Greenpeace, calls for a pause on deep-sea mining, arguing it threatens fragile ecosystems. As of now, 40 countries support a ban or moratorium on mining, highlighting growing international concern.
The High Seas Treaty presents an opportunity to safeguard marine life and ensure the health of the oceans for future generations. As we move forward, the actions taken by countries will determine the treaty’s success.
For more on marine protection efforts, you can refer to the [Nature Conservancy](https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-insights/perspectives/high-seas-treaty-ratification/?en_txn1=s_lio.gd.x.x) for insights into the treaty and its implications.
