An international agreement known as the High Seas Treaty is now in effect, marking a significant milestone in the protection of marine life in areas beyond national jurisdiction. This treaty provides a framework for countries to establish environmentally protected zones in the high seas, which cover nearly half of the Earth’s surface. After more than two decades of discussions, formal negotiations began in 2017, culminating in this historic agreement.
The treaty’s implementation comes at a pivotal moment as the United States reviews an application from a company seeking to explore the deep ocean floor for valuable minerals. While seabed mining generally falls under a different treaty, the authority overseeing that agreement has yet to authorize any commercial activities.
In September 2023, Morocco became the 60th country to ratify the High Seas Treaty, initiating a 120-day countdown for it to become international law. Currently, 83 countries have ratified the treaty, although the United States has yet to join this coalition. Countries that have ratified the treaty are committed to cooperation in upholding its terms, even though enforcement mechanisms for international laws remain limited.
Significance of the Treaty
The High Seas Treaty is rooted in the biodiversity goals set by a separate United Nations agreement in 2022, which aims to protect 30 percent of the world’s land and oceans by 2030. The high seas, often described as the maritime “wild west,” comprise two-thirds of the ocean area, yet less than 10 percent is currently protected.
Rena Lee, the ambassador of Singapore who led the final negotiations, emphasized the treaty’s significance, stating that its enactment presents “a rare opportunity to make a positive difference in the high seas and deep seabed.” The sentiments expressed by Lee highlight the urgency and importance of safeguarding these crucial marine environments.
Future Challenges and Opportunities
As the treaty comes into force, experts recognize that real challenges lie ahead. Rebecca Hubbard, director of the High Seas Alliance, referred to the treaty as a “game changer,” while noting that “in many ways, the work is just beginning.” The treaty is expected to address the growing pressures on marine ecosystems from industrial activities, climate change, and pollution.
The global community now faces the task of translating the treaty’s commitments into actionable policies that effectively protect marine biodiversity. The success of the High Seas Treaty will depend on international collaboration and the willingness of countries to implement guidelines that ensure sustainable use of ocean resources.
The establishment of protected areas in the high seas represents a critical step toward conserving marine ecosystems for future generations. As countries begin to work together under this framework, the hope is that it will lead to a more sustainable and equitable approach to managing the world’s oceans.
