Rallying for Ratification: The Urgent Call for High Seas Protection

In an alarming reality, nearly half of our planet’s oceans remain unprotected, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. The High Seas, which cover over 60% of the ocean and lie beyond any nation’s jurisdiction, represent a critical global commons essential for the health of the entire marine ecosystem.

In response to this pressing issue, Ajay Sawant, President of ThinkOcean Society and High Seas Ambassador for Asia, has launched a petition to fast-track the ratification of the High Seas Treaty in India. This initiative is part of the BBNJ India Campaign and is conducted in collaboration with the High Seas Alliance, EarthEcho International, and partners at Generation Artivism.

The High Seas are not only one of the planet's largest reservoirs of biodiversity but also play a vital role in several of Earth’s systems and cycles, providing numerous ecosystem services. Marine species, including whales, tunas, sharks, and turtles, rely on these waters as migratory routes to access their feeding, spawning, and breeding grounds.

Despite the immense ecological significance of the High Seas, only 1.2% is currently protected due to a lack of clear regulations for establishing marine protected areas. This gap leaves vital habitats and marine species at great risk of exploitation.

Threats to the High Seas are escalating, including unsustainable fishing practices, heavy shipping traffic, noise pollution, seabed mining, and rising levels of plastic and chemical contamination. The climate crisis further complicates matters, causing ocean acidification and warming that threaten marine life.

After nearly two decades of negotiations at the United Nations, the world is now on the verge of finalizing a new treaty that will ensure meaningful protection for marine life in this shared global resource. Ratifying the High Seas Treaty is crucial for India and the international community, as it will bring us closer to the scientifically recommended goal of protecting at least 30% of the ocean by 2030.

Through this petition, ThinkOcean Society calls on all concerned citizens to join in advocating for the ratification of the High Seas Treaty. Together, we can safeguard ocean ecosystems and ensure a healthier planet for future generations. It is time to unite voices to fast-track this essential step towards ocean protection!

Sign the High Seas Treaty Ratification petition now at Change