High Seas Treaty could shape ocean conservation by 2030

The High Seas Treaty entered into force on January 17, 2026, creating a legally binding framework to protect biodiversity in international waters; more than 80 countries have ratified it.

The High Seas Treaty (the BBNJ agreement) entered into force on January 17, 2026, creating a legally binding framework for the ocean beyond national borders. It provides a pathway to establish marine protected areas in international waters and sets new rules for environmental assessments and data sharing. The treaty also addresses access to marine genetic resources and mandates fair and equitable sharing of benefits. Over 80 countries have ratified the agreement, and the first Conference of the Parties is scheduled for later this year. Key facts: - The treaty entered into force on January 17, 2026, extending legal protections to areas beyond national jurisdiction. - It creates a process to designate marine protected areas in the high seas and links to international goals such as protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030. - The agreement strengthens requirements for environmental impact assessments, data sharing, and stakeholder consultation before industrial activities in international waters. - It establishes rules for access to and fair sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources found in the high seas. - More than 80 countries have ratified the treaty, and the first Conference of the Parties will convene later this year to develop rules and oversight. Summary: The treaty could enable more coordinated protections for wide-ranging species and strengthen governance of activities that affect high-seas ecosystems. Its provisions on marine protected areas and marine genetic resources may influence conservation and research practices through 2030. The first Conference of the Parties will develop the rules and oversight needed to put the treaty into practice.