Late last night, after two weeks of intense negotiations, delegates meeting at the United Nations finally agreed to language for a High Seas Treaty. This is a major milestone in a nearly two-decade effort to secure a treaty to govern and protect the High Seas, which make up 70% of the ocean and cover nearly half the planet. More than 160,000 supporters spoke up and urged leaders to act. This public support, along with the great work of partners like RISE UP, the High Seas Alliance, Greenpeace, and more, helped show decision-makers that people all over the world were watching and wanted action — and they delivered. There is still more work to do, as nations will now need to formally adopt the language and ratify the treaty at the country level. We will continue to keep you updated on campaign developments and the critical moments where we need your support.
Shockingly, less than 3% of the ocean is fully protected.
This means overfishing, bottom trawling, and other destructive activities continue to wreak havoc on the ocean.
Scientists say we must protect at least 30% of the ocean by 2030 to stabilize our climate, stop wildlife exploitation, and secure an equitable, healthy future for life everywhere.
In December 2022, at COP15, world leaders finally committed to put this urgent initiative in place. Now it’s time to hold them to their promise. Commitments are nothing without action.
