By Marine Conservation Institute | November 6, 2025
Marine Conservation Institute congratulates the High Seas Alliance (HSA) on accepting the 2025 Earthshot Prize in the “Revive Our Oceans” category on behalf of the High Seas Treaty (also known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction or BBNJ Agreement)— an extraordinary honor which recognizes the historic significance of this multilateral agreement to protect marine biodiversity in areas of the ocean beyond national jurisdiction, which cover half of the planet’s surface.
Video posted by The Earthshot Prize highlighting the High Seas Treaty.
The High Seas Alliance, a coalition of more than 50 organizations and governments worldwide, has accepted the award due to its instrumental role in advancing ratifications of the treaty, which reached 60 ratifications in September–the threshold needed for the agreement to enter into force in January 2026.
Marine Conservation Institute is proud to have co-founded the Alliance and our President, Dr. Lance Morgan, has served on its steering committee since its inception, providing scientific expertise and policy guidance to strengthen global efforts to protect biodiversity and ensure effective, equitable governance of the High Seas.
“This Earthshot win celebrates more than a decade of collaboration, persistence, and shared vision among partners committed to safeguarding the ocean commons,” said Dr. Lance Morgan, President of Marine Conservation Institute.
“As founding members of the High Seas Alliance, it has been incredible to witness what once seemed impossible into a global commitment to conserve and equitably govern the high seas.”
Elle Bent, High Seas Project Coordinator at Marine Conservation Institute added,
“We’re proud to have contributed to this historic effort and to continue working with the Alliance to ensure that the High Seas Treaty is implemented in a way that protects biodiversity, respects Indigenous and local voices, and upholds the best available science.”
The Earthshot Prize recognition underscores the growing global momentum for effective, cooperative ocean governance. Marine Conservation Institute remains dedicated to advancing science-based protections for marine biodiversity—on the High Seas and across the planet’s blue heart.
Rebecca Hubbard, Director of the High Seas Alliance, accepts the Earthshot Award on behalf of the High Seas Treaty.