The Ocean Treaty – a Historical Agreement for Conservation of the High Seas

After decades of negotiations, the members of the United Nations have reached a historic agreement: the High Sea Treaty aims to announce 30% of the seas as protected areas until 2030.

What is the object of the High Sea treaty? The High Sea treaty aims to regulate fishing, mining, shipping routes and other human activities in so-called international waters which don´t belong to one particular country. We are talking about two thirds of the world´s oceans. Through overfishing, waste,  mining, and pollution the marine ecosystems and their inhabitants are under severe threat. 

The three big aims of the High Sea Treaty are:

  • 30% of international waters as protected areas
  • More money for marine conservation
  • New rules for mining at sea

The High Seas are still keeping many secrets. There are around 230.000 species recorded in the world´s oceans but it is estimated that there are more then 2.3 million. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) nearly 10% of global marine species are at the risk of extinction.

The High Sea Treaty or sometimes also called Ocean Treaty will put limits to fishing, shipping routes and sea mining to protect and recuperate fragile marine ecosystems and marine species.

“This treaty is an important and historic step towards real conservation of marine nature. I am really pleased to witness this moment. It gives me hope to see that the global community can come together and act as one when it comes to important climate issues – even though there may be several other issues and crises which are separating us."
Dr. Sheku Kamara
Executive Director, CSSL

The High Sea Treaty is only the first of many steps.
The countries have to formally adopt the agreement and then take action to start the implementation of the ambitious plans.