An international agreement focused on marine conservation has officially come into effect. The High Seas Treaty marks a historic advancement in the protection of international waters, which constitute nearly half of the Earth’s surface and lie beyond any nation’s jurisdiction. This landmark treaty, the result of over two decades of discussions and formal negotiations that began in 2017, enables countries to establish protected marine areas in the high seas.
As of now, the treaty allows for the creation of environmentally protected zones in international waters and sets guidelines for emerging ocean industries. It coincides with ongoing deliberations in the United States regarding a company’s application to explore the deep seabed for precious minerals, although seabed mining is governed by a separate treaty. That treaty’s governing body has taken years to outline regulations for deep-sea mining, but no commercial activities have been authorized to date.
In September 2023, Morocco became the 60th country to ratify the High Seas Treaty, initiating a 120-day countdown until it became international law. Currently, a total of 83 countries have ratified the treaty, while the United States has yet to do so. Nations that endorse the treaty commit to collaborating and adhering to its provisions, although mechanisms for enforcing international laws remain limited.
Rena Lee, Singapore’s ambassador who spearheaded the final negotiations, emphasized the treaty’s significance, stating that its implementation presents “a rare opportunity to make a positive difference in the high seas and deep seabed.” The treaty stems from a broader biodiversity objective set by a separate United Nations agreement in 2022, which aims to protect 30 percent of the Earth’s land and oceans by 2030.
The high seas, comprising roughly two-thirds of all ocean areas, have historically been under-monitored and characterized as a maritime “wild west,” with less than 10 percent currently protected. Rebecca Hubbard, director of the High Seas Alliance, described the treaty as a “game changer,” adding that the real work of preserving marine biodiversity is just beginning.
With the High Seas Treaty now in place, a new chapter in marine conservation has commenced, offering hope for the sustainability of vital ocean ecosystems.
