The high seas make up about two-thirds of the world’s ocean, covering the vast expanses beyond the jurisdiction of any country. Research has shown these waters hold some of the largest reservoirs of biodiversity on Earth, yet they lack consistent and effective oversight.
Fortunately, the United Nations is working on protecting these international waters, finalizing a conservation treaty by the end of 2020.
Full Transcript
Something big is beyond the horizon,
past the borders of any country:
THE HIGH SEAS
They’re brimming with life.
Hundreds of iconic species.
95% of earth’s living space.
The high seas sustain all of us.
They generate roughly half the oxygen we breathe,
absorb carbon dioxide that helps moderate our climate,
and harbor new scientific discoveries.
“Ghost octopus: discovered 2016”
But the high seas are virtually unprotected.
Overfishing, shipping and other activities are damaging our ocean.
But no one is really in charge out here.
All that could change.
If the UN finalizes a global agreement,
“High Seas Treaty”
that includes marine reserves on the high seas.
Let’s safeguard the seas that sustain us.
More information on Pew's work on the High Seas: [ Ссылка ]
