If you’ve ever felt like the ocean is too big to protect, this news might just change your mind. Australia has officially passed legislation to join the High Seas Biodiversity Treaty, marking a powerful step towards protecting the parts of our ocean that belong to no single country.

And here’s the kicker: the high seas make up more than 60 percent of the global ocean, yet only around 1 percent has been protected... until now.

What Are the High Seas, Really?

The high seas are the vast stretches of ocean beyond national borders, covering about two-thirds of the world’s oceans and nearly half the planet’s surface. These waters are more than just open blue space. They're home to over one million species and act as a global life support system.

Our oceans absorb around 90 percent of excess heat from greenhouse gases and about 23 percent of annual carbon dioxide emissions, helping regulate the climate we all depend on. Not bad for something we can’t even see most of the time.

So, What Does The High Seas Treaty Actually Do?

The High Seas Treaty creates the first global framework to properly protect and manage these international waters. In simple terms, it gives countries the tools to finally work together instead of working around each other.

This includes creating marine protected areas, regulating how marine resources are used, and requiring environmental impact assessments before potentially harmful activities go ahead.

It also focuses on sharing the benefits of marine genetic resources fairly and supporting countries with the knowledge and technology needed to protect ocean ecosystems. 

Why Australia Stepping Up Matters

Australia is now the 88th country to ratify the treaty, joining a growing global effort to protect marine biodiversity.

This isn’t just a symbolic move. What happens in the high seas directly impacts our own waters, from marine life migration to industries like tourism and fisheries. Healthy oceans support food security, livelihoods, and a thriving economy for future generations.

Plus, this treaty plays a key role in the global goal to protect 30 percent of the world’s oceans by 2030, helping turn big climate promises into real action. 

From Paper to Practice

While the treaty officially came into force in January 2026, the real work is only just beginning. Countries are now focusing on how to implement it effectively, with decisions made today shaping ocean protection for generations.

There’s a huge opportunity here to build a system that actually works, protecting biodiversity, supporting ecosystems, and even improving long-term fish stocks for communities around the world.

A Big Win for the Ocean We All Share

At Go For Zero, we talk a lot about small changes adding up. But every now and then, a big global shift comes along and reminds us just how powerful collective action really can be.

The High Seas Treaty is one of those moments. It proves that when countries come together, we can protect what matters most, even something as vast as our oceans. Because at the end of the day, a healthier ocean means a healthier planet. And that’s something worth making waves for!

Ready for another Feel Good story? Check out our blog here about tables made from olive pits, you'll love it! 

With Love, 
Ellie x