The High Seas Treaty: an opportunity for climate change adaptation – A recent article in Nature highlights the historic opportunity presented by the High Seas Treaty to address the impacts of climate change on marine biodiversity. Researchers emphasize the importance of this treaty, which could take effect as early as next year, in protecting marine species within the increasingly warm waters of international seas.
Adopted in June 2023, the High Seas Treaty aims to protect international waters, which cover about two-thirds of the world’s oceans, with new marine conservation tools. The treaty, set to enter into force after ratification by 60 nations, recognizes climate change as a significant threat and proposes specific measures to mitigate its effects.
The warming of ocean waters is causing shifts in the migration patterns of marine species such as tuna and whales, which are altering their routes to adapt to new environmental conditions. For example, North Atlantic right whales have changed their migratory paths due to warming waters, increasing conflicts with fishing and navigation and necessitating new conservation measures.
Three crucial steps for the treaty
Researchers suggest three essential steps for the success of the High Seas Treaty in the context of climate change:
1. Intersectoral collaboration: working with fisheries management and other organizations to protect moving species.
2. Strategic conservation plans: developing conservation plans at regional and global levels that consider climate change.
3. Development of scientific capacity: building scientific and governance capacities to model ocean ecosystem dynamics and species movements.
Lessons from the North Atlantic
The article presents the North Atlantic as a case study, where ocean currents like the Gulf Stream and the Labrador Current create an area of extraordinary marine productivity. Conservation measures in these zones are complex and involve multiple jurisdictions. Integrated planning and coordination among these jurisdictions are essential to address the challenges posed by climate change.
A unique opportunity for marine protection
The High Seas Treaty offers a unique opportunity to implement dynamic and adaptable marine area protection. Anticipatory planning and international coordination are crucial to ensuring effective conservation of marine species in the context of a changing climate. Efforts must be intensified now to ensure the treaty can meet future challenges and protect marine biodiversity in the long term.
The High Seas Treaty: an opportunity for climate change adaptation
