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.
This special conversation in honor of Earth Day covered topics including climate-related threats to the ocean, the impact of climate change on small islands and low-lying coastal nations, and the power of the ocean to help heal the planet.
The Impact of Climate Change on Small Islands with Angelique Pouponneau, Senior Advisor to the Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States
The Global Campaign to Stop Deep-Sea Mining with Sian Owen, Director at the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC)
The Power and Potential of Blue Carbon with Jennifer Howard, Vice President of the Blue Carbon Program at Conservation International; Board Member of Only One
Take action
Sign the petition to stop deep-sea mining
Plant trees in the Million Mangrove Challenge
Join The Splash, a community of digital activists
Additional resources
Helpful fact sheets from the DSCC on deep-sea mining
“Is the International Seabed Authority fit for purpose?” fact sheet
Fact sheets that can be used to inform governments and other target audiences on deep-sea mining (in English, French, and Spanish)
Report showing why minerals from the deep sea are not needed for a just, green transition
