In June 2023, with extensive support from The Pew Charitable Trusts, the United Nations adopted a treaty establishing a legal framework to create a network of high seas marine protected areas – the equivalent of international parks at sea – and put in place standards, guidelines and a consistent process for assessing the environmental impacts of new high seas activities.
To help ensure that the ocean continues to support thriving biodiversity, benefit humankind and maintain resilience against threats such as climate change and overfishing, Pew is partnering with governments, scientists, regional ocean management organizations and other key stakeholder groups to enable the rapid and effective implementation of the treaty once it enters into force. Pew’s focus in this collaborative effort is on establishing a path towards the creation of the first generation of high seas marine protected areas by 2030.
Creating the First Generation of High Seas Protected Areas
Beyond the horizon, more than 200 nautical miles from shore, lies an area of the ocean known as the high seas. These waters, beyond the jurisdiction of any nation, make up roughly two-thirds of the ocean and cover nearly half of the planet’s surface. Much is still to be learned about these areas, but scientists know they teem with life and are among the largest reservoirs of ocean biodiversity. The high seas support abundant fisheries; provide habitat and migratory routes for whales, sharks, sea turtles, and seabirds; and harbor remarkable ecosystems, such as deep-water corals and other majestic marine life.
Protect High Seas
Did you know that only 1% of the high seas have legal protections? Learn more about safeguarding this vital international ecosystem with the marine protected areas tool from Pew.
Inside the New High Seas Treaty
On 20 September 2023, the United Nations opened its new agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction—also known as the BBNJ treaty or high seas treaty —for signature and ratification.
High Seas Treaty Must Reflect Critical Role of Fish in Ecosystems
Members of the United Nations are negotiating a treaty that would enable the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), including the international waters known as the high seas.
Protect the High Seas
The high seas—waters beyond any single country’s jurisdiction—cover more than half our planet’s surface. They are among the most biodiverse locations on Earth, harboring remarkable ecosystems and providing countless benefits for marine life and humanity alike. The problem? Right now, only 1% is protected.
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