As a historic governance gap closes, accessible and actionable data remain key to delivering real protection for marine biodiversity, says Global Fishing Watch CEO Tony Long
Today marks a long-overdue and historic step toward addressing governance gaps that have hindered the protection of ocean life in the high seas.The High Seas Treaty, also known as the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), has entered into force, reflecting a global ambition aimed at reversing ocean decline and safeguarding the biodiversity that sustains our planet.
But what comes next will define this critical agreement’s success. Effective implementation will depend on transparency of information that makes human activity at sea visible, measurable and accountable. Transparent, accessible and actionable data on vessel activity and other ocean uses is essential for evidence-based decision-making that balances conservation objectives with sustainable ocean use.
By mapping and monitoring human activity at sea, Global Fishing Watch continues to provide the data and insights needed to drive biodiversity protection and turn ambition into action that delivers real, lasting protection for biodiversity, fisheries and coastal communities around the world.
Global Fishing Watch stands ready to support effective implementation of this vital treaty.