Member states of the United Nations have reached an agreement after years of negotiations to protect the "high seas", the sea area beyond the national Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which occupies about two-thirds of the ocean. This area is part of international waters, outside national jurisdictions, in which all states have the right to fish, sail and do research; but it plays a vital role in supporting fisheries, providing habitats for species vital to the health of the planet and reducing the impact of the climate crisis. No government has so far taken responsibility for the protection and sustainable management of the resources of the High Seas, which makes these areas vulnerable, and some of the most important ecosystems on the planet are at risk, resulting in the loss of biodiversity and habitats. According to estimates, between 10% and 15% of marine species are already at risk of extinction. After nearly twenty years of negotiations and a final 38 hours of discussions,...