IMarEST Comment - UN High Seas Treaty

The historic UN High Seas Treaty was ratified on 19 September 2025. Focussing on the collection and utilisation of open access data to support evidence-based decision making in the conservation and sustainable development of the high seas, the treaty enters into force on 17 January 2026. 

Alasdair Wishart, the IMarEST’s technical and policy director said: 

“The IMarEST welcomes the historic ratification of Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), known as the UN High Seas Treaty, as a step towards fair and sustainable utilisation of a more protected ocean.  

“Our IMarEST Marine community stands ready to contribute as a scientific and technical advisory body, once the BBNJ is established in 2026, through our ongoing representation at the International Maritime Organization and other key international forums.” 

“Implementing environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and marine protected areas (MPAs) in international waters will inevitably affect our industry. As a trusted technical voice for the sector, we will catalyse innovative approaches to these challenges by facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration across our global network of marine professionals.”