Britain has ratified the landmark High Seas Treaty to help protect two thirds of the world’s oceans.

The treaty, also known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement, could not be ratified independently of Britain by Bermuda, as a subcontinental island jurisdiction.

Noelle Young, a local environmental campaigner who has been advocating for inclusive implementation of the treaty for Bermuda, said it was an important moment for ocean conservation. The UK joins a growing number of countries ratifying the international agreement.

Ms Young told the The Royal Gazette: “I’m so happy I could swim laps around the island.

“I received the news while I was at 9 Beaches snorkelling with my son, and there couldn’t have been a more perfect moment — surrounded by the ocean that we have been working so hard to protect.

“I would like to congratulate the United Kingdom and, in particular, His Majesty King Charles III on formally ratifying the High Seas Treaty. This important milestone demonstrates the value of moving the legislation forward through Royal Assent and reflects the UK’s commitment to working alongside its subnational island jurisdictions as implementation of the treaty begins.”

Read more here: https://www.royalgazette.com/environment/news/article/20260714/uk-ratifies-high-seas-protection-treaty/