The High Seas Treaty, established by the United Nations in March 2023, is a landmark agreement designed to protect marine biodiversity in international waters. Covering 95% of ocean habitat by volume, the treaty aims to regulate overfishing, pollution, and deep-sea mining, which threaten marine ecosystems. With climate change accelerating ocean acidification and habitat destruction, the treaty seeks to create marine protected areas (MPAs) and implement global conservation policies. However, challenges remain regarding enforcement, international cooperation, and the economic interests of industries dependent on ocean resources.
✅ Connects Science & Policy – Explains how climate science influences international law and economic decisions.
✅ Encourages Debate on Global Responsibility – Should countries sacrifice economic gains to protect the environment?
✅ Explores Real-World Environmental Issues – Engages students in discussions on climate change, sustainability, and marine biodiversity.
✅ Develops Critical Thinking & Research Skills – Encourages students to evaluate conflicting perspectives on conservation and resource use.
📌 Debate Exercise – Students argue whether the treaty goes far enough or imposes unfair restrictions on industries.
📌 Case Study Analysis – Research successful MPAs like Papahānaumokuākea in Hawaii to examine conservation impact.
📌 Role-Playing Activity – Simulate a UN climate summit, where students represent different nations negotiating conservation efforts.
📌 Policy Proposal Challenge – Students draft a new law to regulate overfishing or reduce ocean pollution.
This edition provides an engaging discussion on environmental policy, international cooperation, and the future of ocean conservation, making it an ideal resource for science, government, and global studies classes.
Download the accompanying lesson plan.
As artificial intelligence reshapes education and the world beyond, high school teachers have a powerful opportunity to help students think critically about the tools they’re already using. Great Decisions: AI + Education, a free resource from the Foreign Policy Association, is designed specifically for classroom use—and it’s ready to plug into your curriculum. This issue […]
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