10 July 2026

WWF Comment

For immediate release

High Seas Treaty could make “a real difference to the future of life in our ocean." says WWF

Rod Downie, Chief Advisor for Polar and Oceans at WWF-UK, said:

“It is encouraging that the UK Government has now ratified and will be at the table for the first Conference of the Parties to the High Seas Treaty (COP1).

This landmark treaty will help to protect marine life in vast areas of international waters from the combined threats of climate change, overfishing, seabed mining, and pollution, and contribute towards the goal of protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030

It provides a framework for vast networks of high integrity Marine Protected Areas and blue corridors for migratory species such as whales, sharks, dolphins, tuna and sea turtles. At a time when ocean wildlife is under increasing pressure, that could make a real difference to the future of life in our ocean."