Nations are being urged to make the UN Ocean Conference a turning point for sea onservation.
A Global Call to Action
On June 9, 2025, the picturesque city of Nice, France, became the epicenter of a pivotal moment in environmental diplomacy. The United Nations Ocean Conference commenced, drawing together over 60 heads of state, scientists, business leaders, and environmental advocates. Their mission: to address the escalating threats facing our oceans and to forge a path toward sustainable marine stewardship.
Oceans in Peril
Our oceans, covering more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, are in a state of emergency. Only about 8% of global marine areas are under protection, far short of the 30% target set for 2030. Challenges such as overfishing, plastic pollution, and the looming threat of deep-sea mining have pushed marine ecosystems to the brink. The conference in Nice serves as a critical juncture to reverse these trends.
Key Issues on the Agenda
Combatting Destructive Fishing Practices
One of the summit’s focal points is the practice of bottom trawling, where heavy nets are dragged across the seafloor, devastating habitats. The United Kingdom announced a partial ban on this method in half of its marine protected areas. France also pledged to restrict trawling in certain zones, though environmental groups urge for more comprehensive measures.
Advancing Marine Protected Areas
Samoa set a precedent by declaring that 30% of its national waters will be designated as marine parks. This move aligns with the global “30×30” initiative, aiming to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. However, achieving this goal requires substantial financial investment and international cooperation.
Addressing Plastic Pollution
Plastic waste continues to inundate marine environments, harming wildlife and entering the human food chain. Delegates at the conference are deliberating on a global treaty to curb plastic pollution, emphasizing the need for sustainable production and waste management practices.
Regulating Deep-Sea Mining
The prospect of deep-sea mining has raised alarms among scientists and conservationists. France is advocating for a moratorium on such activities, citing the irreversible damage they could inflict on unexplored marine ecosystems. The call for precautionary measures underscores the urgency to protect the ocean’s depths.
Financial Commitments and Global Cooperation
A significant hurdle in ocean conservation is funding. Currently, less than 10% of the estimated $15.8 billion needed annually to meet conservation targets is being provided. Small island nations, disproportionately affected by ocean degradation, are urging wealthier countries to increase financial support and honor their commitments.
The Road Ahead
While the UN Ocean Conference does not yield legally binding agreements, it serves as a catalyst for action and collaboration. The decisions and pledges made in Nice have the potential to reshape our relationship with the oceans and ensure their health for generations to come.
