HIGH SEAS MARINE PROTECTED AREA ACCELERATOR: fast-tracking effective ocean protection

The High Seas – the international waters that cover nearly half the planet – are some of the most biodiverse yet least protected parts of the world. A lack of governance has left this vast ocean area increasingly vulnerable to over-exploitation and other pressures. Currently, only 1.5% is safeguarded in marine protected areas (MPAs). 

Following the historic agreement of the United Nations High Seas Treaty in March 2023, a framework has been established to enhance the protection and management of marine life in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Yet 60 countries must ratify the Treaty for it to enter into force. As the #RaceForRatification continues, there is growing interest by governments and civil society to start laying the groundwork now for increased protection of the High Seas. 

The High Seas MPA Accelerator, led by civil society, aims to build on this momentum by fostering collaboration and streamlining efforts to fast-track the development of proposals for a connected and effective network of high quality, well managed High Seas MPAs. These proposals are expected to include eight priority sites identified by the High Seas Alliance, known as The Hidden Natural Wonders of the World, that could form the first wave of protection once the Treaty is up and running. 

To help achieve this, the Accelerator initiative will create a diverse and inclusive multi-stakeholder network that facilitates the exchange of technical expertise, lessons learned, best-practices, training, and tools to support governments in designing high quality and effectively managed High Seas MPA proposals. It will actively engage a wide range of non-governmental stakeholders, including the High Seas Alliance and its members as well as rights holders, such as Indigenous Peoples and Local communities. Working closely with governments and relevant government alliances, including the ‘BBNJ First Movers High Seas MPA Leadership’ initiative, it will support and amplify efforts to protect the High Seas as a fundamental step towards reaching the global target to protect at least 30% of the ocean by 2030 (30×30).

Key activities of the Accelerator will include organizing workshops to support ongoing efforts to protect biologically rich areas of the High Seas and stimulating the development of new MPA proposals. Knowledge and expertise will be gathered to support all stages of the proposal development process, including: ecological value and cultural knowledge mapping; monitoring, control and enforcement; best practice MPA management; effective information sharing mechanisms; capacity building; and identifying tools and technology to support efforts.

An example of collaborative action under the Accelerator initiative is the announcement by the Australian government and non-governmental organizations of a landmark science and knowledge symposium aimed at mapping the extraordinary values of the Lord Howe Rise – South Tasman Sea, and plans to begin stakeholder discussions about its future management and protection as an MPA under the High Seas Treaty.