World's first legally binding treaty to protect oceans and marine life takes effect

The High Seas Treaty, the world's first legally binding agreement to protect marine life in international waters, has come into effect. The treaty, also known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ) Agreement, governs about two-thirds of the planet's oceans, including vast areas beyond any country's borders. The treaty entered into force 120 days after it reached the threshold of ratification by 60 countries in September. As of January, 83 countries had ratified it, including major maritime powers such as China and Japan. The high seas face mounting threats from destructive fishing practices, shipping, plastic pollution, overfishing, and potential deep sea mining, all compounded by climate change. Currently, only about 1% of these international waters are protected. Ratifying countries can propose new areas for marine protection.