2026: A Crucial Year for Ocean Protection with New International Agreements

On January 17, 2026, the historic Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction came into force — a document that for the first time creates a clear management and protection system for ocean areas not owned by any state.

Scope and Significance of the Agreement

The treaty covers about 95% of the volume of the World Ocean and extends over half of the Earth's surface. It protects the flora and fauna inhabiting 75% of the ocean that is not under the control of individual countries. After 15 years of negotiations, the document was agreed upon in 2023 and received the necessary 60 ratifications in the fall of 2025. Currently, the agreement is supported by more than 80 countries.

Key Provisions

The agreement establishes several important protection mechanisms:

• Marine Protected Areas — the creation of a network of specially protected marine natural areas where economic activities are prohibited or strictly limited. The goal is to protect 30% of the World Ocean by 2030. Currently, protected areas make up only 1% of the area of international waters.
• Mandatory Environmental Assessments — states must assess the potential impact of their actions on the environment for any planned activities in waters beyond their national jurisdiction.
• Regulation of Marine Genetic Resources — establishing mechanisms for the fair distribution of benefits from the use of genetic resources based on equitable and fair exchange.
• Liability for Pollution — mechanisms for holding those who pollute the ocean accountable and procedures for dispute resolution.

International Demands

Participants in international negotiations unanimously called for expanded protection of the seas, increased efforts to reduce ocean pollution, and regulation of the high seas. Countries that ratified the agreement must begin collaborative work in science and technology related to the ocean and provide assistance to developing countries in this area.

Climate Dimension

Measures to combat climate change through the ocean have taken a more prominent place in many updated programs presented by states under the Paris Climate Agreement. Governments around the world are choosing strong solutions, including the development of marine renewable energy, low-carbon shipping, and the restoration of mangrove forests.

Critical Remarks

It is important to note that the agreement does not regulate the extraction of mineral resources from the seabed — this area remains under the jurisdiction of the International Seabed Authority. Furthermore, while experts call the agreement a turning point for multilateral cooperation and ocean governance, concerns remain about potential loopholes in its implementation.

Scientists and ecologists emphasize that 2026 is a decisive year: humanity now has the chance to change its attitude towards the ocean and its riches. However, this will require not only political will but also a readiness for compromise. Otherwise, the unique ecosystems of the open ocean may be at risk of extinction.