UN Ocean Conference secured ocean conservation commitments

The UN Ocean Conference concluded in Nice with over 170 countries adopting a declaration committing to urgent ocean conservation and sustainable use. This "Nice Ocean Action Plan" aims to expand marine protection and limit pollution. The conference, attended by over 15,000 delegates, saw countries make over 800 new voluntary commitments. Key pledges included the EU's €1 billion Ocean Pact and French Polynesia's plan for a vast marine protected area. Nineteen countries ratified the High Seas Treaty, bringing the total to 50, though 60 are needed for it to take effect. The US, however, did not send a high-ranking delegation, contrasting with global efforts.