International Seabed Authority

Michael Lodge (Secretary General, International Seabed Authority) and Emilie McGloane (Director, Peace Boat US) met at the SDG Media Zone to discuss the importance of a new historic treaty - the Treaty of the High Seas - which protects biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (often shortened to BBNJ). Michael Lodge emphasized the vastness of oceans and said that “1% of oceans contain more minerals than exist on land”. He continued: "Good regulation is important to ensure that the ocean’s resources are not exploited". So far, some 60 UN Member States have signed onto the treaty since its opening this week at UNGA78.