UN Ocean Conference Launches in Nice, Highlighting Ocean Conservation

NICE, FRANCE — The third United Nations Ocean Conference commenced with a vibrant display of maritime commitment as a fleet of 30 research and exploration vessels set sail off the coast of Nice on June 8, 2025, coinciding with World Oceans Day. The event, themed "Ocean Wonders," aims to underscore the invaluable significance of the oceans while urging global leaders to prioritize marine conservation amid escalating threats.

This year’s conference gathers thousands of delegates, including heads of state, scientists, and environmental advocates, all convening to address the pressing challenges facing the world’s oceans, such as rising temperatures, plastic pollution, and the overexploitation of marine resources. According to the United Nations, a mere 2.7% of the global ocean is effectively shielded from destructive practices, which starkly contrasts with the global objective of protecting 30% by 2030.

Among the noteworthy vessels participating in this event is the Energy Observer, a pioneering solar-powered catamaran recognized for being the first to navigate the globe utilizing renewable energy exclusively. This vessel generates hydrogen fuel on board through seawater electrolysis, illustrating the potential for zero-emissions in maritime travel. Other significant attendees include France’s Alfred Merlin, which focuses on underwater archaeology, the billionaire-owned OceanXplorer research yacht, and WWF’s Blue Panda, dedicated to mapping and safeguarding the Mediterranean Sea's remaining seagrass meadows.

Central to the discussions at the conference is the ratification of the High Seas Treaty, established in 2023. Should it come into force, this treaty would empower nations to create marine protected areas in international waters, which encompass nearly two-thirds of the ocean that currently lack governance. "The High Seas Treaty is critical to ensuring we can protect biodiversity in the ocean," stated Rebecca Hubbard, director of the High Seas Alliance. "We’re in the middle of a biodiversity and climate crisis. We absolutely have to protect the ocean to address those crises."

Despite the establishment of protected areas, enforcement remains a significant hurdle. Many nations, including France, face scrutiny from environmental organizations for inadequate regulation and ongoing industrial activities within designated marine protected zones. Sílvia Tavares, project manager at the Oceano Azul Foundation, expressed concern, stating, "The ambition is not there, the speed is not there, and the scale has not been there. Moments like UNOC are key to changing that."

During the conference, several countries are anticipated to announce new marine protected areas and impose bans on destructive activities such as bottom trawling within existing networks. Following the ceremonial sail, the "Ocean Wonders" fleet will remain docked in Nice, open to the public until the conference concludes on June 13.

This gathering underscores the urgency of collective action in preserving the world’s oceans. As the conference unfolds, the international community will be watching closely for commitments and measures that could reshape the future of ocean conservation.