Minderoo Foundation pledges $10 Million to Boost High Seas Marine Protected Areas
Perth,Australia – Minderoo Foundation has committed Aud$10 million to substantially enhance the growth of marine protected areas (MPAs) in the high seas. This substantial funding aims to protect vital ocean ecosystems and accelerate progress toward global conservation goals.
This pledge marks one of the largest philanthropic commitments to high seas conservation to date. The investment will support extensive scientific research and collaborative consultations, potentially leading to the establishment of a major MPA in the Lord Howe Rise-South Tasman Sea region, located between Australia and New Zealand.
Protecting the “Volcanic Lost World”
The targeted area, often called a “Volcanic Lost World,” is renowned for its rich biodiversity. It features ancient coral gardens, deep-sea seamounts, and critical migratory routes for various species, including humpback whales and Galapagos sharks.
Dr.Andrew Forrest Ao, Founder Of Minderoo Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for action: “These ecosystems are under immediate threat from industrial activities like deep-sea bottom trawling, the devastating impact of which was shown in graphic detail in ‘Ocean With David Attenborough’ – making rapid intervention critical.”
The High Seas Treaty and Global Conservation
the High Seas Treaty, agreed upon in June 2023, is a crucial international agreement designed to enable the creation of MPAs in international waters. Its ratification by a sufficient number of nations is essential to achieving the global target of protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030.
“Minderoo FoundationS pledge sends a clear signal that action to develop proposals to establish and implement high-quality protected areas in the high seas… needs to start immediately if we are to make meaningful progress towards the global goal of protecting 30 per cent of the ocean by 2030,” Dr. Forrest stated.
He further urged nations, including Australia, to prioritize the treaty’s ratification, highlighting the critical need to prevent irreversible damage to our oceans.
The Importance of the High Seas
The high seas constitute nearly two-thirds of the ocean’s area and 95% of its habitable volume. They support a wide array of marine life, regulate the global climate, and sustain billions of people worldwide.
Minderoo Foundation’s Head Of Biodiversity And Habitats, Dr. Rebecca Wellard, acknowledged the Australian government’s commitment to researching the South Tasman Sea and Lord Howe Rise. she noted this as a vital step toward ratifying the UN High Seas Treaty.
Expanding Conservation Efforts
In addition to supporting MPAs in the South Tasman Sea and Lord Howe Rise, Minderoo’s funding will advance science-based advocacy and gender-inclusive governance across Australia-Pacific partnerships.
“minderoo Foundation is collaborating with a consortium of partners to integrate gender equity and considerations into the implementation of the High Seas Treaty,” Dr. Wellard explained. This initiative aims to promote inclusive decision-making and equitable benefit-sharing in high seas governance.
Pro Tip: Support organizations dedicated to marine conservation to contribute to the protection of our oceans. Consider donating or volunteering your time.
A Collective Philanthropic Effort
This announcement builds on a previous pledge of $51.7 Million made in October 2024 by several philanthropic organizations at the COP16 UN Biodiversity conference.The collective commitment now totals nearly $60 million, marking the largest philanthropic investment ever for high seas conservation.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Pledge | Minderoo Foundation: $10 Million Aud |
| Target Area | Lord Howe Rise-South Tasman Sea Region |
| Importance | Home to ancient coral gardens, deep-sea seamounts, and migratory species |
| Threats | Industrial activities, including deep-sea bottom trawling |
| Goal | Protect 30% of the ocean by 2030 |
Did You Know? High Seas cover almost two-thirds of the Ocean´s area and 95% of its habitable volume.
Advancing Gender Equity
The program, designed to be adaptable, aims to support applications across numerous high seas MPA sites, countries, and organizations. Minderoo intends to collaborate with partner coalitions and governments to drive inclusive decision-making and stronger accountability.
Do you think more philanthropic organizations shoudl invest in marine conservation? What are the biggest threats facing the high seas today?
The Broader Context of Marine Conservation
Marine Protected Areas are vital for safeguarding marine biodiversity and ensuring the health of our oceans. these areas provide refuge for marine life, support lasting fisheries, and help mitigate the impacts of climate change.
According to a 2024 report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), effectively managed MPAs can lead to a meaningful increase in fish biomass and species diversity. Though, only a small percentage of the world’s oceans are currently protected, highlighting the urgent need for increased conservation efforts.
The High Seas Treaty represents a landmark opportunity to expand marine protection beyond national jurisdictions. Its accomplished implementation requires coordinated action from governments, philanthropic organizations, and local communities.
frequently Asked Questions about Marine Protected Areas
- What Are Marine Protected Areas? Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are designated areas in oceans and coastal regions intended to conserve marine ecosystems and biodiversity. They range from strictly protected reserves to areas allowing sustainable resource use.
- Why Are Marine Protected Areas Important? MPAs help to preserve marine life, support sustainable fisheries, protect coral reefs, and enhance resilience to climate change impacts. They provide safe havens for species to thrive.
- What Is The High Seas Treaty? The High Seas Treaty is an international agreement to create a legal framework for establishing and managing MPAs in the high seas, which are international waters beyond national jurisdictions.
- How Does The Minderoo Foundation Support Marine Conservation? The Minderoo Foundation supports marine conservation by providing funding for research, advocacy, and implementation of MPAs. Their efforts focus on biodiversity protection and sustainable ocean management.
- What Are The Main Threats To Marine Ecosystems In The High Seas? The main threats include overfishing, deep-sea mining, pollution, and climate change.These activities can severely damage marine habitats and disrupt marine life.
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