Archive · 17 Jan 2026
UN Biodiversity Treaty Protects 30% Oceans
A big new rule called the BBNJ treaty started this month.
It helps countries work together to protect the oceans.
The treaty wants to make sure 30% of the ocean is safe by 2030.
Right now, only 8% is protected.
Countries have to check if their activities hurt the ocean.
The treaty also helps share things found in the ocean, like special resources.
But it doesn't control mining on the ocean floor.
More than 80 countries have agreed to follow the treaty, and more are expected to join.
The UN treaty BBNJ entered into force on January 17, 2024, after 15 years of negotiations.
The treaty aims to protect 30% of the oceans by 2030, currently only 8% is protected.
Countries must conduct environmental assessments for activities impacting ocean ecology.
The treaty allows sharing of marine genetic resources used in industries like biotechnology.
Over 80 countries have ratified the treaty, with more expected to join, including the US, UK, and Australia.
- Who
- United Nations, countries, environmental groups
- What
- A treaty to protect biodiversity in international waters
- When
- Entered into force on January 17, finalized in March 2023
- Where
- International waters, global
- Why
- To protect 30% of oceans by 2030 and regulate activities impacting ocean ecology
- Treaty Name
- Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ)
- Finalized Date
- March 2023
- Ratification Threshold
- 60 national ratifications
- Current Ratifications
- More than 80
- Target Protection
- 30% of oceans by 2030
- Current Protected Area
- 8% of oceans
- Key Objective
- Create global network of marine protected areas
- Environmental Assessments
- Required for activities impacting ocean ecology
- Mining Regulation
- Not covered by the treaty
