Oceans Treaty Crosses Threshold — A Turning Point for Shark Conservation

A major international step toward protecting our oceans and restoring marine life is set to become legally binding through the new High Seas Treaty. This treaty, officially ratified by Morocco and now in effect from January, marks a significant milestone in global ocean conservation.

The two-decade effort aims to designate large areas of international waters—more than two-thirds of the ocean—into marine protected areas (MPAs). This will offer critical refuge for depleted and vulnerable species, including sharks, which play a vital role in maintaining healthy food webs and ecosystems.

Environmental leaders see this as a "monumental achievement," demonstrating that countries can collaborate effectively to protect ocean biodiversity. As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres states, the treaty establishes binding rules to conserve marine life and ensure sustainable use.

Decades of overfishing, pollution, climate change-induced warming, and habitat destruction have severely threatened marine species—almost 10% are now at risk of extinction, according to the IUCN. Sharks, as top predators, are especially vulnerable but essential for a balanced food chain.

The treaty’s goal to protect 30% of the high seas by 2030 is crucial for shark populations, which often migrate across these waters. By creating safer habitats and curbing destructive fishing practices, this effort will help sharks recover, ensuring they can continue regulating prey populations and supporting the health of ocean ecosystems.

Blue Shark

While progress has been slow—only 1% of the high seas are currently protected—the ratification of this treaty signals a new era of cooperation. Countries will now propose specific areas for protection, and these will be voted on, providing hope for the recovery of species like sharks.

For Shark Guardian, this treaty offers an opportunity to advocate for marine protected areas that prioritize shark conservation. Protecting sharks means safeguarding food webs, supporting biodiversity, and ensuring resilient ecosystems that benefit all ocean life—and ultimately, human well-being.

This groundbreaking agreement affirms that global collaboration can lead to meaningful change, securing a healthier future for sharks, ecosystems, and the planet.