What is the UN high seas treaty and will it save the world’s oceans?
New ScientistNov 29, 2022
The Facts
On Monday, the UN adopted the world's first treaty to safeguard the high seas and preserve marine biodiversity in international waters. The legally binding accord follows an agreement in March wherein delegates from over 100 countries pledged to protect at least 30% of the world's oceans by 2030.
The high seas, which cover over 60% of the earth's surface, will now be protected by the Treaty on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction. The treaty, which will be formally presented at the UN General Assembly meeting on Sept. 20, must be ratified by 60 countries for it to come into force.
The Spin
Narrative A
The treaty is humanity's first serious attempt and triumph at managing international waters in the environmental fight. It's the perfect example of global threats being challenged by global action. The world's oceans are home to up to 10M species and hold invaluable resources for billions of people, and the accord will undoubtedly push countries to stop destroying the high seas.
Narrative B
Although the treaty is undoubtedly a success for the environment, biodiversity, and the world, it's important not to overstate its potential. The likes of shipping routes that melt ice covers and deep sea mining are activities that will not face scrutiny under the treaty. Moreover, unsustainable fishing in areas already covered by legal agreements cannot be protected further. We must continue to be led by science to support offshore conservation.
Narrative C
Current mainstream climate policies are often incredibly costly and deliver peanuts. Also, the UN still needs to meet goals set in similar treaties in the past. Instead of sacrificing the amazing opportunities natural resources continue to provide for us, greater emphasis must be placed on developing technology to explore and access the high seas.
