Overview

• The High Seas Treaty is set to enter into force after surpassing the 60-ratification requirement, enabling the designation of marine protected areas in international waters.
• More than 30 countries have backed a precautionary pause on deep-sea mining to protect vulnerable seabed ecosystems from irreversible damage.
• Germany announced plans to recover World War munitions from the North and Baltic seas and to support partner nations in creating High Seas marine reserves.
• A newly formed coalition of around 200 coastal cities under UN leadership will share expertise and funding to adapt to rising sea levels and extreme weather.
• Delegates prepared for August negotiations on a global plastic pollution treaty as part of efforts to cut marine debris and meet 2030 conservation targets.