UN plans to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030

More than 100 countries discussed ocean protection at the United Nations, reaching a landmark agreement on Saturday night.

A legally binding document adopted in New York provides that by the end of the decade, that is, by 2030, 30% of the world’s oceans should become protected areas.

Lying outside the exclusive economic zones, the high seas make up 2/3 of the world’s oceans and play a vital role in supporting fisheries, securing ecosystems and mitigating the effects of the climate crisis. However, only 1% of this space is protected.

The idea for an important document appeared back in 2002, more than two decades ago. The negotiations were lengthy and very difficult. The discussions were about the right to fish, compensation for poorer countries, the development of ocean resources.

Ecologists consider the implementation of the treaty to be one of the most important factors in combating climate change and protecting biodiversity. Now the long-awaited document has to be ratified by each of the UN member states.