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.
Victory: The Driftnet Modernization and Bycatch Reduction Act, a bipartisan bill which officially phases out the use of harmful driftnets in federal waters, was passed by Congress on Dec. 23rd. Less than one week later, President Biden signed the measure into law.
It’s time to stop the needless slaughter of dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine wildlife by driftnets off the coast of California.
Driftnets are outdated and destructive to wildlife. Dolphins, whales, and other marine mammals are being mercilessly killed off the coast of California by a fishing practice intended to catch swordfish, but which indiscriminately scoops up other species.
