Emmanuel Macron on Protecting International Waters and Combating Ocean Greed

Treaty on International Waters

• 🇫🇷 French President Emmanuel Macron announced that a treaty to protect international waters is on track for ratification in January.
• 🌍 This treaty aims to establish an international framework for regulating and administering the high seas, ensuring they belong to everyone.
• 🔑 60 ratifications are needed for the treaty, signed years ago, to be implemented and govern international waters.

Challenges and Ratification Delays

• ⏳ Activists express cautious optimism, noting that while the treaty is close, the required number of ratifications has not yet been reached.
• ❓ Questions arise about the slow pace of ratification, with some nations requesting additional months for parliamentary approval.
• 💰 An element of greed and impatience is suggested as a potential reason for the delays and discussions surrounding the conference.

John Kerry on Greed and Climate Action

• 🇺🇸 John Kerry, former US Special Envoy for Climate, highlighted how greed and differences are causing divisions among nations.
• ⚠️ He expressed hope for renewed momentum in climate action, aiming to move beyond political divides, particularly concerning the US stance.
• 📉 Kerry acknowledged the US's past withdrawal from climate agreements and its exploration of deep-sea mining under the Trump administration.

State of the Oceans

• 🗑️ The ocean is described as a dumping ground, with over 500 dead spots resulting from excessive pollution flowing into it.
• 🎣 Illegal fishing is depleting fish stocks, with massive nets scooping up everything, a significant portion of which is used for livestock feed.
• 💡 A better way to manage ocean opportunities is proposed, emphasizing healthier, safer living through transitioning away from harmful practices like burning fossil fuels.