United Nations on Tuesday kicked-off talks on a 2020 treaty that would regulate the high seas, which cover half the planet yet lack adequate environmental protection. Four sessions of talks, each lasting two weeks, are planned to take place over two years, with the goal of protecting marine biodiversity and avoiding further pillaging of the oceans. Talk will focus on “the high seas and the international zone of marine waters, or about 46% of the planet’s surface,” he added. In 1982, the UN adopted the Convention on the Law of the Sea, but left the high seas free from restrictions.

UN begins to protect high seas. (2018, September 3). The Manila Times, p. B6.