UK to Ratify High Seas Treaty by End of 2025: What It Means for Ocean Protection

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Why the UK High Seas Treaty Matters for Marine Conservation

In a landmark move for global ocean protection, the UK has pledged to ratify the High Seas Treaty, a long-awaited international agreement aimed at safeguarding marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions. While it may sound distant, this decision holds major implications for our coastal ecosystems here in the South West.

What is the UK High Seas Treaty?

The High Seas Treaty, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, was adopted by the United Nations in 2023. It aims to protect marine life in the vast expanse of ocean that lies outside any single country’s control roughly two-thirds of the world’s oceans.

This treaty represents a major breakthrough in international conservation, setting out frameworks for:

• Establishing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

• Sharing marine genetic resources fairly

• Conducting environmental impact assessments on high seas activities

  
  

For the UK to pledge ratification is not just a diplomatic gesture it signals real momentum in the fight to reverse ocean degradation.

Why It Matters Locally

From our conservation base in Brixham, we see first-hand how interconnected global and local marine health truly are. The seals, seabirds, and cetaceans we monitor and rescue don't recognise national boundaries. Pollution, overfishing, and climate change ripple across oceans and inevitably impact our Devon coastline.

By supporting the UK High Seas Treaty, we’re joining a global alliance to protect the ocean commons. It creates a framework where conservationists, scientists, and coastal communities like ours can advocate for:

• Stricter protection zones in international waters

• Greater transparency in industrial fishing practices

• Stronger accountability for environmental harm
  

What Happens Next?

The UK government will now begin formal ratification procedures, and conservation organisations will be watching closely to ensure those promises turn into meaningful action. As a community-focused CIC (Community Interest Company), we’re committed to:

• Sharing accessible updates on the treaty's progress

• Highlighting how these global policies connect to South Devon's marine life

• Encouraging public involvement in marine advocacy
  

We believe public awareness is a powerful catalyst for change. And while international treaties are essential, so too are the everyday actions we take from reducing plastic use to supporting ethical brands.

Final Thoughts on the UK High Seas Treaty

Ratifying the UK High Seas Treaty isn’t just a win for distant waters. It’s a win for the creatures we see along our shores, for the school groups who visit our education sessions, and for everyone who values a thriving, resilient ocean.

Let this be the start of a renewed commitment to global-local conservation. Because what happens on the high seas will always find its way home.

Who We Are & How You Can Help

The Cove Discovery Project is a conservation-focused Community Interest Company based in South Devon, working to protect marine wildlife through education, outreach, and habitat awareness. From seal rescues to coastal clean-ups, we’re dedicated to helping local ecosystems thrive.

You can support our mission by visiting our lifestyle store in Brixham or shopping online every purchase funds our ongoing conservation work and promotes ethical, sustainable living.

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