UN Pushes for Ocean Conservation as Attenborough's 'Ocean' Doc Airs
David Attenborough's latest documentary, 'Ocean', underscores the vital role oceans play in our planet's survival. Meanwhile, the UN has convened a conference in Nice, France, to bolster ocean conservation and sustainable use. This follows President Richard Nixon's 1970 declaration of the seas as 'the common heritage of mankind'.
The Law of the Sea, established in 1982, regulates global ocean usage. It grants coastal states exclusive economic zones of 200 miles, but preserves the right of passage for other nations' ships and planes. This balance between coastal jurisdiction and high seas freedom resulted from a 26-year negotiation process.
Notably, the US, despite not ratifying the treaty, has been encouraged to do so by recent presidents, including Joe Biden. However, President Donald Trump did not send a delegation to the UN's Law of the Sea conference. The Nice conference aims to accelerate action on ocean conservation, potentially setting precedents for space exploration.
The Law of the Sea, though drafted decades ago, remains crucial for global ocean management. With the UN's Nice conference pushing for accelerated action, and Attenborough's documentary raising awareness, the importance of our oceans is once again in the spotlight. The US, while not yet fully on board, continues to consider ratifying the treaty.
